“No Turning Back”: PM Harini Amarasuriya Vows to Push Forward with Education Overhaul
By Lions Roar News Education Desk
PUTTALAM, SRI LANKA (Sunday, January 18, 2026) — Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has sent a clear message to critics of the government’s education policy: the planned “transformational change” of the school system is moving ahead at full speed with no room for retreat.
Speaking at a high-level discussion with education officials and school principals in the Puttalam region yesterday (January 17), the Prime Minister reaffirmed that the government’s long-term roadmap for education is being executed exactly as planned.
🚀 Digital Classrooms within Two Months
The Prime Minister revealed specific timelines for the first phase of the technological rollout, focusing on bridging the digital divide in secondary education.
- Immediate Tech Deployment: Selected secondary schools will receive interactive screens and high-speed internet connectivity within the next two months.
- Funding Secured: Dr. Amarasuriya confirmed that dedicated funds have already been allocated for these special transformation programs, ensuring the project does not stall due to financial hurdles.
- Beyond the Screen: The reforms include a parallel focus on infrastructure development and the strategic recruitment of teachers and principals to fill existing gaps.
🛡️ Deflecting “Minority” Opposition
Addressing the friction caused by certain groups, the Prime Minister urged officials to maintain a strong bond of mutual trust with the government to protect the interests of the nation’s children.
“In a process this serious, minority groups may raise objections to achieve narrow goals. We must ignore these distractions and maintain the trust between the government and its officials. This is about shaping the future of our children and our entire country.” — PM Harini Amarasuriya
She emphasized that while the reforms are a “long-term process,” the initial steps—such as equipment distribution—are vital to building public confidence in the new system.
📊 Key Pillars of the Reform Plan
The Prime Minister outlined the three-pronged approach currently being implemented:
- Infrastructure: Physical upgrading of school facilities across the provinces.
- Digital Literacy: Equipping classrooms with interactive technology and connectivity.
- Human Capital: Streamlining the recruitment process for educators and administrators.
