The Hon. Mayilvaganam Jegatheeswaran

¶ 01 Hon. Presiding Member, we have once again proved that the people are with the National People’s Power. In the recent EDCS (Education Co-operative Society) elections, we won about 370 out of 384 positions. In the Northern Province, our affiliate CTSU won 13 out of 14 positions.

¶ 02 Education is the backbone of a nation. In this Budget, our Government has historically allocated the highest funds for education, enabling us to address multiple shortcomings. Mahapola allowances and scholarships for high-achieving students have been increased, and allocations for infrastructure have been raised.

¶ 03 To improve literacy and development, we must focus more on infrastructure in national schools, especially in Mullaitivu, Vavuniya and Mannar Districts where facilities are very poor. We visited Al-Aqsa Maha Vidyalayam last month; buildings are dilapidated and at risk of collapse. Around Rs. 10,000 million has been allocated for national school infrastructure; I request allocation to improve those in our districts.

¶ 04 Regarding appointments of principals and teachers in past years, due to a lack of proper procedure and planning, many faced difficulties in assuming duties. In the Northern Province, 349 were appointed as principals, but only 299 took up duties; 50 did not, and many returned to teaching. Of 374 graduate teacher appointments, only 242 accepted; five from Colleges of Education also did not assume duties. This happened because placements were not made in suitable locations following proper procedures. Consequently, backward areas still face severe shortages: 3,539 teachers, 187 principals, and 111 education officers are needed in the Northern Province. The underlying issue is the lack of proper transfer and placement administration.

¶ 05 Therefore, like district-based Z-score cut-offs for student selection, there should be district-based recruitment and placement for principals and teachers, selected through competitive exams conducted at district level. This would place teachers in their districts, allowing them to serve with satisfaction. I request the Hon. Prime Minister and Minister of Education/Higher Education/TVET to adopt this approach.

¶ 06 On 08.08.2012, over 3,000 “excess” or “surplus” principals were appointed. To date, they have not been transferred properly nor provided principal allowances. Serving many years in the same school has caused severe mental stress. Please rectify procedures and ensure justice.

¶ 07 Additionally, 88 acting principals in the Northern Province were selected through interviews and have been working for over ten years without confirmation. Please address this urgently.

¶ 08 Schools face a severe shortage of minor staff. In many Northern schools, the lack of sanitary workers and cleaners has left toilets and premises in deplorable condition, forcing students themselves to clean. Please appoint sufficient minor staff.

¶ 09 Due to underfunding, Teacher Training Colleges have been unable to complete modules; teachers have been waiting 2–3 years for promotions and increments. Under our Government this year, we will address this.

¶ 10 Finally, to those who cannot think beyond the temporary price increases of rice, salt, and coconuts: under our Hon. President’s leadership, our National People’s Power Government will make Sri Lanka self-sufficient within five years. Thank you.