Harini Amarasuriya Announces Plans to Strengthen Education Workforce and School Facilities

Prime Minister and Education Minister Harini Amarasuriya says the government is developing a structured programme to recruit highly qualified and skilled personnel into Sri Lanka’s education system, alongside continued investment in school infrastructure.

She made the remarks on October 24, 2026, at the opening of a newly constructed two-storey building at Kadawalwewa Maha Vidyalaya.

The government invested approximately Rs. 55 million in the building, which contains eight primary school classrooms. Following the opening ceremony, Amarasuriya met with students and inspected the new classrooms.

Education reforms focus on practical skills

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said the education reforms being implemented this year aim to develop students with knowledge, practical skills and positive values.

She noted that the existing education system had placed considerable emphasis on knowledge acquisition and examination preparation. The reforms, she said, seek to help students apply what they learn to solve real-world problems and develop innovative ideas.

Amarasuriya said the government was implementing several initiatives, including the introduction of new curricula, teacher training and improvements to school infrastructure.

She also indicated that the government expected to make a substantial investment in education transformation in 2027.

Teacher and principal recruitment

The Prime Minister said recruitment processes for teachers and principals, which had been delayed for several years, were being resumed.

She stressed the importance of prioritising qualifications, skills and ability when strengthening the education workforce.

Amarasuriya also highlighted the financial pressures faced by parents in providing their children with a good education, saying the government had a responsibility to share part of that burden.

She added that children should be given opportunities to develop their talents and contribute to the country’s future development.

The opening ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Housing, Construction and Water Supply T. B. Sarath, Polonnaruwa District Member of Parliament Padmasiri Bandara, Polonnaruwa Municipal Council Mayor Lalith Thissa Kumara, Polonnaruwa Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Wasantha Kumara, education officials, school principals, teachers, parents and students.