Govt prioritizing overhaul of school education and exam systems - Sri Lankan President

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the inauguration of the “2024 School Meal Program” at Sujatha Balika Vidyalaya in Narahenpita on Mar 25,

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of holistic education, advocating for a curriculum that includes both academic subjects and nutritional support for children across the country.

He also underscored the necessity of integrating modern technologies like artificial intelligence into the educational framework, highlighting the government’s commitment to reforming the school education and examination systems.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the inauguration of the “2024 School Meal Program” at Sujatha Balika Vidyalaya in Narahenpita on Mar 25, the President’s Media Division reported.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, addressing the event, elaborated:

“Today marks the commencement of the school meal program, a pivotal step in fulfilling one of the government’s key objectives. Recognizing that education encompasses not only academic knowledge and examination performance but also nutritional well-being, this initiative mirrors global practices adopted by numerous nations.

Malnutrition poses a significant challenge within our borders, transcending income disparities addressed by the expanded Aswasuma program. However, the root causes extend beyond financial limitations, affecting students of all backgrounds. Many commence their school day before dawn, foregoing breakfast and often lunch, underscoring the universal necessity for school-provided meals.

As we strive to modernize our education system, our focus extends beyond the immediate horizon, envisioning an educational framework suited not just for 2024 but also for 2030. Initiatives are underway to equip teachers with modern educational techniques and instill students with essential technological proficiency, including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into every school curriculum. To support this endeavour, the establishment of AI societies within schools and the enactment of legislation to establish a National AI Centre are underway, with substantial government funding allocated for research and educational endeavours.

Embracing the imperative of technological literacy, efforts to overhaul the education and examination systems are underway, accompanied by programs aimed at enhancing English language proficiency among students. These multifaceted initiatives underscore our commitment to equipping the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.”