The Hon. Mahinda Jayasinghe

¶ 01 Under the 1994 Constitution, progression is 75% by competitive exam and 25% by competency assessment—clearly stated. Also, I table the “Subodhini” report; read it to understand required qualifications and pathways.

¶ 02 Intervention from The Hon. Shanakiyan Rasamanickam: raises an area-specific matter. Response: Noted.

¶ 03 As Chair, on 8 July we established a sub-committee for constituting the Education Council, as outlined in our “Prosperous Country - Beautiful Life” policy (see page 16 for how salary anomalies will be addressed). Additionally, a Ministry Expert Committee led by Prof. O.G. Dayaratna of the University of Peradeniya has given us an excellent report within about two and a half months. The Education Council will professionalize the teacher as “educator,” and propose career levels, standardization, quality assurance and accreditation, with four standing committees for professionalism, standardization, quality assurance and accreditation. This is to base pay structures on professional development and benchmarks and resolve anomalies. We have given it to the Ministry; Sinhala and Tamil translations are underway; we will share with unions and stakeholders, gather feedback, and proceed toward Cabinet decisions and legislation next year. After 27 years without a solution, we have taken the first decisive step.

¶ 04 We recognize the burdens teachers and principals face—excessive paperwork, hardship allowances not based on distance, etc. We are discussing distance-based difficult area allowances with the Ministry.

¶ 05 We assure the education community that the trust you placed in us will not be broken; we will secure your rights.

¶ 06 Thank you.