Cyclone Ditwah has directly affected 1,382 schools across Sri Lanka, Prime Minister and Education Minister Harini Amarasuriya reported in Parliament. The hardest-hit regions include the Central, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa Provinces.

Currently, 666 schools remain closed despite the nationwide reopening of classes. The number is expected to rise following the government’s decision to close all schools in the Central Province on December 19 and 22 due to ongoing adverse weather conditions.

Dr. Amarasuriya emphasized that reopening schools wherever possible is aimed primarily at supporting the psychological wellbeing of students. She instructed zonal education officials, principals, and teachers to focus on helping children readjust to school life rather than resuming normal lessons or examinations immediately.

To assist affected students, the government will provide a financial allowance of Rs 25,000 per child, combining Rs 10,000 from the President’s Fund and Rs 15,000 from the Treasury, to cover school books, stationery, and uniforms.