The Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, change is the only constant, and the only government that can bring the necessary change is the National People’s Power Government. For a long time, both students and teachers, as well as parents, suffered under an exam-centric system. Under our Hon. Prime Minister’s leadership, a new reform will be implemented from next year; it is welcome and commendable.

¶ 02 Introducing vocational education from Grade 9 will provide pathways for students who otherwise leave school empty-handed after 11 years and failing the G.C.E. (O/L). This reform will help them build careers, improve their quality of life, become responsible citizens and contribute to national development.

¶ 03 There has been inequality in the distribution of human and physical resources—by region and by school type (national, provincial, rural). Students in rural schools are denied equal, quality education and cannot always choose preferred subject streams, particularly at A/L in mathematics and science, due to lack of teachers and facilities. This creates injustice and mental stress for students and parents, forcing them onto alternative paths not of their choice. Our reform addresses these inequities with concrete programmes.

¶ 04 We also intend to move away from a single high-stakes examination. A/L students currently study for two years and then face a three-hour exam that often does not reflect their learning. Many say they cannot recall what they studied. We will introduce module-based assessments with credits awarded per unit, reducing pressure and improving opportunities.

¶ 05 The new timetable provides two intervals, with a second 10-minute break from 12.10 to 12.20 p.m., allowing students to refresh and be ready for afternoon learning.

¶ 06 In the Northern Province, especially in backward areas like Vanni, there is a lack of transport. While we speak of equal and quality education, students there walk 4-6 km to school. For example, students of Karungalikulam Government Tamil Mixed School in Vavuniya walk 5-6 km. Teachers in rural areas also suffer, travelling 50-55 km to teach, unlike their urban counterparts. These inequalities harm both teachers and students. Our reforms will help resolve such issues.

¶ 07 Finally, our National People’s Power Government is undertaking a reform that will produce citizens capable of meeting 21st-century challenges and building a peaceful, sustainably developed society. I say this with pride. Thank you.