The Government of Sri Lanka is preparing to implement major reforms in the education sector, with a strong focus on enhancing vocational and technical education. Speaking in Parliament on July 9, 2025, the Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, outlined the key plans set to roll out under the new education reforms in 2026.
Introduction of Vocational Subjects from Grade 10
Under the new reform framework, vocational subject streams will be introduced for students in Grades 10 and 11 across all schools. This initiative allows students to:
- Begin vocational studies from Grade 10
- Continue through Advanced Level (A/L)
- Obtain a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) Level 4 Certificate by the end of Grade 13
This four-year vocational path aims to better equip students with practical skills, making them career-ready even before university.
Curriculum Development in Progress
The National Institute of Education (NIE) is currently developing the curriculum and subject modules for these vocational streams. The goal is to:
- Integrate vocational education into the national school system
- Expand the number of schools offering A/L vocational streams from 609 to 1,000 by 2026
Strategic Planning with Stakeholder Support
A strategic plan is being drafted with contributions from key education stakeholders and assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). This plan will guide the development of technical and vocational education beyond school education, ensuring alignment with national development goals and industry needs. The complete draft is expected to be finalized and submitted by September 2025.
Teacher Recruitment and Capacity Building
To support the implementation of vocational subjects:
- Teachers will be recruited and trained through teacher training colleges
- Infrastructure in schools will be upgraded to support technical education
Additionally, a five-year teacher development program will be launched to:
- Provide annual training for teachers already appointed to vocational streams
- Ensure they stay updated with the latest industry trends and practices
Continuous Review and Updates
The vocational subject streams will be regularly reviewed and updated in 2026 and 2027 to ensure they remain relevant to current job market demands.
These reforms signal a significant shift in Sri Lanka’s education system—one that bridges the gap between academic learning and employable skills. By integrating vocational training into the school curriculum, the government aims to create more pathways for student success and national economic development. – Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya –
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