Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya says the government is committed to strengthening early childhood education, describing preschool education as the most critical stage in shaping a child’s future learning journey.
She made these remarks while attending a certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the 2023/2024 Preschool Teacher Training Diploma Programme at the North Western Provincial Council Auditorium in Kurunegala during an education inspection tour of the district, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.
The diploma ceremony was jointly organised by the Early Childhood Education Development Authority and the North Western Provincial Council. The North Western Preschool Teacher Training College, one of Sri Lanka’s leading state institutions for preschool teacher training, conducted the programme.
Addressing the newly qualified teachers, the Prime Minister said the government is working with the National Education Commission, the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, and the Ministry of Education to establish policy frameworks, teacher training standards, and regulatory mechanisms to improve the quality and oversight of early childhood education across the country.
“We are planning to establish stability in early childhood education over the next few years. Through these efforts, we expect to introduce a common curriculum for preschools across the country by 2027,” she said.
Dr. Amarasuriya also noted that arrangements are being made to recommence preschool teacher training programmes this year and stressed the importance of proper supervision and monitoring of preschool education initiatives in all provinces.
Highlighting the purpose of preschool education, the Prime Minister said it should focus on preparing children for primary education by developing age-appropriate skills, including motor and social skills, rather than placing unnecessary academic pressure on young children.
“As parents and adults, it is our responsibility to create opportunities for children to develop knowledge and social skills in ways that are suitable for their age. Preschool teachers have a vital role in helping society understand the true objectives of early childhood education,” she said.
The event also included presentations outlining the government’s policy direction on early childhood development and education.
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