Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya announced that the new school curriculum introduced for Grade 1 in 2026 will be expanded to Grades 2 and 6 in 2027 as part of national education reforms.

Speaking at the opening of a newly constructed two-storey building at Ethumalapitiya Primary School in Polonnaruwa on October 24, Prime Minister Amarasuriya stated that the reforms aim to build a generation equipped with practical skills, knowledge and values. She outlined a shift toward a student-centred education model to replace traditional teacher centred knowledge transfer.

Addressing human resource shortages, Prime Minister Amarasuriya confirmed that competitive examinations for recruiting 23,006 teachers have concluded. She stated that interviews and practical assessments will begin in November 2026, noting that unsystematic recruitment of teachers and principals in recent years created ongoing system challenges.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya also announced that legal steps have begun to establish an Education Council to maintain professional standards in the sector. She emphasised that curriculum updates must occur alongside improvements to infrastructure, human resources, and administrative facilities.

During the event, Prime Minister Amarasuriya directed public representatives in Polonnaruwa to ensure allocated school development funds are spent efficiently and projects are completed without delay. Referring to the newly opened facility, she noted that construction began in 2017, was halted during the economic crisis, and resumed under the current administration. She stated that completing unfinished school construction projects remains a government priority to eliminate safety risks to students.

The event was attended by Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath, Polonnaruwa District MP Padmasiri Bandara, local officials, education administrators, teachers, parents and students. (Eduwire)