Introduction to the New Learning-Centered Education Model
Sri Lanka is embarking on a significant transformation in its education system, shifting from a traditional model to one that prioritizes practical knowledge and skills. This shift is part of a long-term reform plan initiated by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education. The new approach aims to equip students with real-world competencies that will better prepare them for future challenges.
Implementation Timeline and Scope
The reforms are set to begin with students entering Grade 1 and Grade 6 in 2026. According to Nalaka Kaluwewa, the Ministry Secretary, this marks the first phase of a comprehensive overhaul that will span over a decade. A student starting in Grade 1 under this new system will graduate around 2036 or 2037, highlighting the long-term nature of the initiative.
Currently, Sri Lanka has 10,076 schools, with 12,626 Grade 1 classrooms and 11,291 Grade 6 classes. These numbers underscore the scale of the reform, as it will initially focus on these grades before expanding to others.
Teacher Training and Preparation
One of the key components of the reform is the training of teachers. The Ministry has divided the training into two stages: the Training of Trainers (ToT) and the subsequent training of all teachers. The ToT phase, conducted by the National Institute of Education, is nearly complete, with almost 10,000 master trainers already trained. The next phase aims to train 136,065 teachers across the country, which is currently underway.
All teacher training is expected to be completed by December 31, 2025. This ensures that educators are well-prepared to implement the new curriculum effectively.
Development of New Learning Materials
In preparation for the 2026 school year, the Ministry has developed 106 modules for Grades 1 and 6. The printing process is now in its final phase and is anticipated to be completed by November 15. Once finalized, these materials will be distributed to students in time for the new academic term.
Additionally, the Ministry plans to conduct an awareness program for parents in December 2025. This initiative aims to inform families about the changes in the education system and ensure their support and understanding.
Changes in School Schedules
Another significant change involves the duration of school periods. Based on recommendations from the National Institute of Education, the length of each class will be extended to 50 minutes. This adjustment is not merely about increasing school hours but is part of a broader effort to enhance learning quality through more practical and activity-based methods.
As a result, the number of periods per day will decrease from eight to seven, with longer intervals between classes. This change is intended to provide students with more time for reflection and engagement with the material.
Impact on All Grades
The new school schedule will apply to all grades, not just Grades 1 and 6. Grades 1 to 4 will share the same schedule, while Grades 5 to 13 will have their school time extended by 30 minutes. This uniform approach ensures consistency across the education system.
Addressing Public Transport Concerns
Concerns about public transport issues due to the extended school hours have been addressed by the Ministry. Discussions have already taken place with the Transport Ministry, the National Transport Commission, the Road Passenger Transport Authority, and the Railway Department. These institutions have agreed to adjust their transport facilities to accommodate the new school times.
Availability of Information
All related circulars regarding the education reforms have been issued and are available on the official Education Ministry website. This ensures transparency and accessibility for the public, allowing stakeholders to stay informed about the changes.