Steps Being Taken to Further Formalise the Process of Appointing Principals
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated in Parliament that, as the appointment process for school principals has not been conducted in a systematic manner for a considerable period of time, discussions are being held with the Public Service Commission to review the existing procedure and introduce the necessary changes to formalise the process.
The Prime Minister made these remarks in response to a question raised by Member of Parliament Ruwan Wijeweera regarding whether, in addition to basic educational qualifications, other performance-related qualifications are considered when appointing principals to schools.
The Prime Minister said that, under the Human Resource Management pillar of the ongoing education reforms, the existing procedure and all relevant circulars are currently being reviewed. She noted that the Government agrees that the selection of principals should not be limited solely to academic qualifications, and that other performance-related factors should also be taken into consideration.
She further stated that the Ministry of Education is currently conducting a number of training programmes aimed at developing the capacities of principals. A systematic programme to further enhance their capacities is also expected to be implemented, while a programme to strengthen relevant institutions through the National Institute of Education is expected to be introduced in 2027.
Meanwhile, commenting on a statement made in Parliament on August 19 by an Opposition Member of Parliament claiming that teachers would not receive their salaries this month, the Prime Minister emphasised that the statement was completely false.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further stated in Parliament that there is no issue regarding the payment of teachers’ salaries and that teachers are receiving their salaries as scheduled and on time.
Prime Minister’s Media