Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, announced that the government is taking steps to upgrade National Colleges of Education into top tier educational institutions by revising their curricula and improving infrastructure.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing an event held on November 9, 2026, at the Ministry premises in Isurupaya to induct 246 newly recruited teacher educators selected through an open competitive process. Recruitment for this cohort, originally initiated via a 2019 gazette and subsequent 2020 examinations, was temporarily stalled due to national health and economic crises before resuming in 2024. Following qualification tests, practical exams and interviews, the successful candidates officially entered public service.

Highlighting the evolving role of educators, Prime Minister Amarasuriya noted that shifting from traditional teacher centered instruction to student centered learning increases rather than diminishes a teacher’s responsibility. She stressed that modern teachers must act as dynamic leaders and mentors capable of unlocking each child’s maximum potential. Furthermore, she emphasized that achieving this historic educational transformation requires the collective commitment of citizens, parents and children, protecting C.W.W. Kannangara’s legacy of free education while adapting systems for a modern world.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr. Madura Seneviratne announced plans to upgrade current National College of Education diploma courses into higher diplomas and subsequently into Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree programs, fulfilling a policy pledge made prior to assuming office. He noted that as these institutions transition toward university level standards, the new educators will play a vital role in fostering critical thinking and research oriented teaching environments.

The event was attended by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa alongside other senior ministry officials. (Eduwire)