Hon. (Dr.) Madhura Senevirathna

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, we value the service of these coaches; they have helped produce many national and even international-level athletes. Regarding entry to the teacher service, we have held several rounds of discussions with them. A significant number now hold degrees. In the forthcoming limited competitive graduate recruitments, space will be provided for a considerable portion from this cohort; this is positive. Further, we will ensure continuous professional development (CPD): joint programmes with the Sports Ministry and Education Ministry, scheduled training for coaching and officiating, and overseas training opportunities. These coaches also support cluster schools, especially where there are no Physical Education teachers. We will assign coaches to school clusters and build specialisations in particular sports. Through a joint committee with the Sports Ministry, we will implement a substantial programme to strengthen their professionalism.