A high-level discussion was held on 18th August under the chairmanship of the Prime Minister to strategically plan the digitalization of special education and expand assistive technology for learners with disabilities. Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eng. Eranga Weeraratne and MP Sugath Wasantha, the Secretary to the Prime Minister Mr. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to MODE Mr. Varuna C Dhanapala and Secretary to the Ministry of Education Mr. Nalaka Kaluwewa participated. Officials from ministries of education, health and rural development were present.
The discussion emphasized that the pilot must be planned in every detail, taking to account of sector-specific challenges, as poorly designed implementation could result in devices and investment going to waste.
Key directives included: • Small-Scale Pilot: Begin with a limited number of schools and devices to test, learn and refine implementation. • Education Reform Integration: Embed the programme within ongoing reforms, initially focusing on Grades 1, 2 and 6, prioritizing schools with basic infrastructure for children with disabilities or the schools that have been selected for improvement under the reform initiatives. • Focused Scope: Initially address identified disabilities rather than all learning difficulties, with scope for gradual expansion. • Capacity & Accessibility: Strengthen screening, educator training and accessibility standards to support effective implementation
Prime Minister’s Media Division