Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated in Parliament today (08) that a special five-year project has been proposed in this year’s Budget to upgrade computer facilities at Information Technology and Distance Learning Hubs (ITDLHs) and secondary schools across the island.
The Prime Minister made this statement in response to a question raised regarding information technology education.
The Prime Minister further stated:
An audit conducted in 2026 confirmed that many centres had not received new computer equipment since 2014.
As most of the existing equipment is now in a condition beyond repair, the Government intends to implement a five-year plan to provide new equipment, prioritising secondary schools.
A total of 109 Information Technology and Distance Learning Hubs (ITDLHs) operate islandwide under the Distance Education Promotion Branch of the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education. Previously known as Computer Resource Centres (CRCs), these centres continue to function based on the guidelines and objectives issued by the National Institute of Education in 1997.
These centres conduct short-term ICT courses for students preparing for the G.C.E. Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations, offer NVQ courses for school leavers, and provide teacher training related to education reforms. They also conduct information technology training programmes for principals, teachers, public sector employees and the general public, while facilitating access to online examinations and the submission of university admission applications.
At present, ITDLH centres have not been established in certain areas, including Kilinochchi, the Northern Province, Mannar and Mullaitivu in the Northern Province, as well as Dehiattakandiya, Maha Oya, Kantale and Batticaloa in the Eastern Province, and certain areas in the Western Province. Some CRCs that previously operated have also been closed due to the non-appointment of new teachers following the retirement of existing staff, shortages of equipment and an insufficient number of student applications.
As no allocations were made for the construction of new buildings in 2024, 2025 and 2026, approval for such construction was not granted by the National Planning Department. Accordingly, discussions are being held once again with the National Planning Department to submit project proposals for the establishment of new centres in these areas.
Although funds are allocated annually for maintenance and repairs, the new five-year project is being introduced as a long-term solution to the existing challenges. Accordingly, subject to the necessary approvals, the Government plans to address at least 50% of the identified infrastructure and facility requirements at these centres and secondary schools by 2027.
Prime Minister’s Media Division