Sri Lanka is shifting away from an education system solely focused on pass or fail examination outcomes, Prime Minister and Education Minister Harini Amarasuriya said today.

The government’s objective instead will be to deliver quality education to children through the introduction of a module-based system, she said.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya made these remarks while addressing a media briefing held at the Ministry of Education at Isurupaya today (23), on the new education reforms set to be introduced in 2026.

“We, as teachers, parents, and students, have grown accustomed to an education system designed primarily around examinations. However, with this module-based system, students will engage in diverse learning activities and undergo continuous assessments,” the Premier said.

The General Certificate of Education (G.C.E.) Ordinary Level examination under the new curriculum is scheduled to commence in 2029, while the module system will be introduced for Grades 1 and 6 starting in 2026.

“We have three years to observe this system,” the Prime Minister explained. “Based on the evolving circumstances and needs, we are prepared to make the necessary adjustments. We have never claimed that these reforms are final. We expect to revise them in line with future developments. Furthermore, we welcome suggestions and feedback from all stakeholders,” she said.

The Prime Minister also stressed the need to reduce classroom sizes to 25–30 students, noting that previous political admissions had pushed some classes beyond 40.

She confirmed that such practices have been halted and only officially approved student numbers will be allowed going forward.

On the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination, Prime Minister Amarasuriya clarified that no decision has been made to abolish it, adding that significant disparities among schools must be addressed first.

The reforms also propose placing early childhood development centers under the direct management of the Education Ministry, including the training of early childhood educators.

Deputy Minister Madhura Seneviratne also addressing the event said teacher training is a core focus of the reforms, with a new program set to launch in August. Additional briefings will be held with university academics, teacher unions, and education officials, the official said.