Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the highest amount allocated for education has been marked in this year’s budget and  emphasized that allocating funds alone is not sufficient and policies must be implemented through a strong institutional framework.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on 25th of November in Parliament during the debate on the budget allocation for the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.

The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated,

“When discussing education, it is essential to base our decisions on sound educational policies in order to establish a quality education system in the country. In order to implement policies effectively, a strong institutional structure is required and both components need adequate financial support. The longstanding failure to accomplish these three aspects has resulted in the significant challenges we see today in the education sector. Despite these challenges, the commitment of teachers, principals, and officials we have been able to maintain the quality of education.

The most important achievement in 2025 was strengthening decision-making processes within the education sector by identifying institutions, resolving existing issues, rectifying institutional structures, aligning with policy frameworks, and ensuring that funds are spent according to policy priorities. These steps were taken in preparation for the education reforms scheduled to commence in 2026.

It is not only about formulating policies but it also requires proper planning for implementing quality education. Officials need clear targets, and responsibilities must be allocated appropriately. Looking back at the policies proposed throughout history, there is no substantial change in school curricula archived. This has mainly been due to the lack of planning, weaknesses in institutional structures, and inadequate financial allocations resulting in the failure of policy implementation.

In 2025, we were able to take commendable steps to address these issues and establish a cohesive institutional system. The Ministry of Education focused its decisions on four core areas: reducing inequalities through equity, enhancing quality, strengthening governance, and formulating evidence-based policies using data and scientific analysis. I am pleased that we were able to formulate policies, prepare plans, and build institutional structures based on these four pillars.

Referring to the report presented by the committee appointed to address issues at Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine, the matter revealed how past decision-making processes had deteriorated, with personal interests and political agendas replacing proper principles and policies. This had undermined the quality of the university and resulted in injustice to the students. The lack of proper planning and weaknesses in institutional structures had affected almost all institutions related to education. In 2025, the government was able to rectify these shortcomings and restore the order.

After many years, the highest allocation for education is Rs. 7.04 billion, amounting to 2.04% of GDP has been allocated in this year’s budget. At no point we claim that we would reach 6% of GDP in the first year. We recognize that achieving this target requires policy development and strengthened institutions. Allocating funds alone is not sufficient; funds must be allocated in alignment with policies, while strengthening institutions and policy implementation.

A sum of Rs. 3,000 million has been allocated to the Ministry of Education for education reforms, under which the ongoing initiatives are being implemented. The expenditures for the year 2025 were discussed. Our budget was passed at the end of April 2025, and we began expenditure from May. Accordingly, our financial progress was 18%, and by December it had reached 69%. This level of efficiency has not been demonstrated in the education sector before. This progress was possible because we set clear targets for officials, ensured close monitoring, and strengthened accountability. By 2026 and 2027, we aim to achieve even greater progress.”

The Prime Minister further sateted that there are still challenges remaining. This sector moves forward with addressing many weaknesses along with the continuous improvement. Efficiency must be further enhanced. When issues arise in schools or universities, swift and effective action is essential. We must work to minimize constraints. This involves taking responsibility, forming policies, preparing plans, and moving forward step by step.

(Prime Minister’s Media Division)