President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has announced that the government will continue implementing national education reforms despite opposition, backed by increased financial support for trainee teachers and expanded digital infrastructure across schools.

Delivering the 2027 Budget speech in Parliament, the President stated that the reform process has already commenced and that education reforms for Grades 2 and 6 will be implemented starting next year as part of broader efforts to transform the sector.

Under the budget proposals, the monthly allowance for students at teacher training colleges will increase from Rs. 10,500 to Rs. 20,000. The government will also raise the daily allowance for student monks from Rs. 15 to Rs. 50, while providing an additional allowance for lay students. Additionally, the distribution of school materials will continue with financial assistance from China.

President Dissanayake further announced plans to expand internet connectivity across schools. Building on the more than 6,000 schools that already have internet access, the government expects to extend connectivity to remaining schools that currently lack the facility. Schools will also be equipped with modern teaching tools, including smart boards, alongside initiatives to improve teachers’ digital literacy for effective classroom use.

In addition, Rs. 35,000 million has been allocated for the development of educational facilities and infrastructure in schools and teacher training colleges. The President noted that these measures aim to improve access to quality education, strengthen digital learning, and upgrade the country’s education infrastructure. (Eduwire)