The Hon. (Dr.) Harini Amarasuriya

¶ 01 Hon. Speaker, the answers are as follows:

¶ 02 1) We all accept that the current higher education system must be rapidly transformed, and likewise the general education system should shift quickly towards a modern, forward-looking model. We are intervening accordingly.

¶ 03 2) Yes. Special attention has also been given to general education, and necessary steps are underway to reform the existing school curricula.

¶ 04 3) For higher education, a committee of experts has been appointed to recommend reforms. Implementation will commence upon receipt of their recommendations.

¶ 05 For general education, the current curricula are under analytical review to align with present domestic and global economic and social needs, while reducing teaching–learning pressure on teachers and students. The necessary legal underpinnings will be prepared, and curricula will be introduced under a phased plan. From the beginning of 2026, curriculum reforms will commence for Grades 1 and 6 in government schools and proceed in subsequent years to other grades under an appropriate rollout.

¶ 06 4) Yes. With reference to national education goals and Sustainable Development Goals, we aim to produce students equipped with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and competencies necessary for citizens in a rapidly developing world, and thereby build the economic, social and political maturity required for Sri Lanka as a developing country. The reform programme is being prepared accordingly.

¶ 07 5) There are no impediments identified to expediting higher education reforms. For general education, no significant obstacles have been observed at present. With the participation of all relevant stakeholders, the foundational planning and measures necessary to introduce curriculum reforms from early 2026 are being readied.