By Janaka Sampath Bandara

Several issues pertaining to the improvement of education in the Central Province were recently discussed at a meeting presided over by the Central Province Governor, Professor S.B.S. Abeykoon at his office in Kandy. Representatives from the Lanka Teachers’ Union, Principals’ Service Union, Teacher Advisory Union, and Pirivena Teachers’ Service Union, along with other provincial representatives, participated in the discussion.

The meeting focused on several critical issues aimed at advancing education in the province. Among the key decisions taken were measures to discontinue teacher training sessions conducted after school hours on weekdays and to ensure that the appointment of national school teachers to provincial schools is carried out with their consent. Complaints about teachers charging students for additional classes were also discussed, with plans to investigate these complaints thoroughly and take appropriate action. The streamlining of essential services provided to teachers at zonal offices—such as the payment of salary increments, arrears, disaster loans, promotions, and retirements—was highlighted as a priority.

Other issues addressed included the establishment of a structured process for assigning examination duties, based on qualifications and efforts to enhance the efficiency of the Provincial Examinations Department. Discussions also centred on the need to fill vacant director positions promptly and to accelerate investigations into allegations of misconduct, bribery, or corruption against certain officials. Attention was drawn to the urgency of expediting appointments for those who passed the Central Province teachers’ competitive examination held on 26 July 2024, in collaboration with the central government. Strengthening public transport services for rural and underprivileged schools through consultations with provincial transport authorities was also proposed.

The meeting also explored policies regarding the transfer of principals, with emphasis on the annual declaration of principal vacancies and the reduction of acting principal appointments by ensuring vacancies are promptly filled. Proposals included assigning permanent principals to schools currently managed by acting principals, offering fee waivers for professional development courses, and providing adjustment allowances for newly appointed principals. Additionally, it was suggested that specific principal grades be designated for schools to promote clarity and efficiency in management.

The discussion brought together key officials, including Ajith Premasinghe, Chief Secretary of the Central Province; Manjula Madahapola, Secretary to the Governor; Madupani Piyasena, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education; and Nihal Alahakoon, Provincial Director of Education. Representatives from the Department of Education were joined by trade union leaders such as Dayan Wimalaveera, Kandy District Secretary of the Lanka Teachers’ Union, and A. Srilal, Secretary of the Kandy District Principals’ Service Union. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to enhancing the province’s educational standards and addressing the challenges faced by teachers and schools.