Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya told Parliament that the Government has proposed a five-year project to upgrade computer facilities at secondary schools and Information Technology and Distance Learning Hubs (ITDLHs) across the country.

Responding to a queries on information technology education yesterday (8), the Prime Minister noted that an audit conducted in 2026 found many centers had not received new computer equipment since 2014, leaving most existing hardware beyond repair. Under the proposed programme, new equipment will be provided, with priority given to secondary schools.

She said there are currently 109 ITDLHs operating islandwide under the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education. Formerly known as Computer Resource Centres (CRCs), these hubs provide ICT courses for G.C.E. Ordinary Level and Advanced Level students, NVQ courses for school leavers and training for teachers. They also conduct IT training for principals, public sector employees and the general public, while facilitating online examinations and university admission applications.

However, the Prime Minister noted that several areas remain without ITDLHs and some previously operating centres have been closed due to teacher shortages, a lack of equipment and insufficient student applications. Proposals to establish new centres have not yet received approval from the National Planning Department because no funds were allocated for new building construction in 2024, 2025 and 2026. Discussions are currently underway with the department to resubmit proposals for underserved areas. (Eduwire)