Susil extols benefits of uninterrupted education

Education Minister Susil Premajayantha emphasised the importance of providing children with a solid educational foundation, enabling them to attain a bachelor’s degree by the age of 21, a post-graduate degree by 23, and a doctorate degree by 27.

The Minister expressed gratitude towards all those who contribute to fulfilling this crucial responsibility. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of minimizing wasted time for children and embracing the advancements of the modern world.

He highlighted the challenges faced in commencing Advanced Level classes immediately after the conclusion of the Ordinary Level (O/L) examinations. This initiative aims to address the educational setbacks experienced by students due to the postponement of exams.

Speaking at an event at Nalanda College, Colombo, yesterday, for students who recently completed the O/L exams, the Minister emphasised the urgency of resuming educational activities to ensure continuous learning opportunities.

Minister Premajayantha noted that approximately 330,000 students, including private candidates, appeared for this year’s O/L exams, with around 280,000 of them being school students. “Typically, it takes about three-and-a-half months to release the O/L results, during which time students are not required to attend school. To prevent this gap in education, the Ministry of Education has decided to start Advanced Level classes for these students immediately.”

This measure is also part of an effort to restore the regular exam and school schedules disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The decision was made after consulting various educational experts and scholars.

Minister Premajayantha explained that starting Advanced Level classes immediately would prevent students from idling at home and ensure they continue their education without interruption. The classes will begin under the streams of Arts, Commerce, Science, and Technology, guided by teachers and based on student preferences. While some adjustments may occur when O/L results are released, the number of students engaged in Advanced Level studies might change by about 5-10 prcent, a variation observed in previous years as well.

Although the presence of two Advanced Level student groups in schools might pose logistical challenges for about three months, including space issues. The Minister assured that schools are prepared to manage these difficulties. School principals and teachers are aware of these challenges and will work to address them effectively.

Minister Premajayantha emphasised the need for a shift in the education system, moving beyond traditional state administration to a leadership era where practical knowledge and skills are prioritised. He outlined plans to integrate STEM and STEAM education methods into the school system, aligning with global education standards.

By the end of July, all subject streams will be digitized and networked across all schools, with approximately 1,500 leading schools already being networked. Additionally, a pilot project for teaching Artificial Intelligence is set to be launched in schools by January 2025. To support these initiatives, necessary teacher training will be provided, including the use of smart boards and other digital resources.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of addressing challenges such as teacher absenteeism due to sick leave and ensuring the rights of students who cannot take leave. These efforts are crucial to overcoming obstacles and maintaining a continuous learning environment for all students.

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