Holding Schol Exam again would burden children – LTSU

Lanka Teacher Service Union (LTSU) General Secretary and National People’s Power (NPP) National Executive Council member Mahinda Jayasinghe expressed concern that conducting Grade 5 Scholarship Examination again would place a significant burden on the children.

He expressed these views following claims that questions were leaked from the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination paper and a group of parents urged a re-examination, while another group opposed it.

Jayasinghe noted that a team of specialists, including child psychologist Chaminda Weerasiriwardena had raised concerns about the potential mental stress children could face if the exam is held again.

Addressing the media, Jayasinghe explained the union’s stance on the issue, stating, “There was widespread concern across the country when it was reported that the first paper of the exam, held on September 15, had been leaked. On the 18th, our union held a press conference to clarify our position, and we also formally notified the Commissioner General of Examinations.

“The Commissioner General later issued a statement confirming that three questions had been leaked and outlined the actions being taken in response. However, there was confusion among some parents, with some claiming that more than three questions were leaked. During a protest, a group of parents met with President Anura Dissanayake and stated that eight questions, not three, had been leaked. Despite this, the authorities continue to emphasise that only three questions were out and the remaining questions were those from previous years.

“This issue has now escalated into a national controversy. Some parents have protested in front of the Education Ministry and the Presidential Secretariat, expressing their dissatisfaction. We believe their concerns are legitimate, as the current measures have not yet established complete trust.

“It is the responsibility of the Education Secretary and the examination authorities to ensure credibility in their actions. There are two opposing views-one group of parents demands a re-examination, while the other group opposes it. However, re-conducting the exam would place an undue burden on the young minds of 10-year-olds. A team of doctors has conducted a media briefing on this matter, with one doctor highlighting how the Scholarship Exam has already caused significant mental strain on children.

“We, as a union, are also aware of reports from both sides-those calling for the re-examination and those opposed to it. Some parents argue that those who support the re-examination are the ones whose children had access to the leaked questions. Meanwhile, we have noticed some attempting to politicize the issue, blaming the current government.

“This examination was held under the former government of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, and the current government bears no responsibility. Some are attempting to shift blame to the present administration, which has been in power for only a week. Moreover, the official from the National Institute of Education who is now in custody has clear political ties to the former government. Attempts to link this issue to the current administration’s agenda are baseless. The current government will not protect individuals involved in such misconduct.

“The government is taking serious steps to address this issue, and President Anura Dissanayake has decided to suspend the evaluation of exam papers for two weeks. We hope further investigations will lead to a fair resolution for both sides’ parents while ensuring any decision considers the mental well-being of the children. The Prime Minister has also appointed a special investigation committee to look into the matter.”

At the meeting, Lanka Teacher Service Union’s Gampaha District Secretary Rohana Ratnayake, Gampaha Zonal Secretary Nihal Priyashantha and Negombo Zonal Secretary Chithrani Manchanayake were also present.

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