Training colleges have offered the same teacher training education for the past 15 years

It is a top priority of the government to enhance the professionalism of teachers and equip them with modern educational knowledge.

– Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya –

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized that the teacher training education provided through the college system in Sri Lanka has remained unchanged for the past 15 years. These institutions play a crucial role in shaping the educators responsible for the future of the nation’s children.

She made these statements while speaking at “PULATHISIYA THARUNAI,” the Pulathisipura National College of Education celebration organized by the College Alumni Association at the Teachers Training College of Education, Polonnaruwa, in honor of its 25th anniversary.

During the event, Prime Minister Dr. Amarasuriya unveiled a plaque featuring the logo of the Pulathisipura Faculty of Education and ceremonially planted a Na tree within the faculty premises. Additionally, the entire academic staff, including Deans who have served from 2000 to 2025, were acknowledged for their contributions to the institution.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya further expressed:

“This is my first official visit to a Faculty of Education in my capacity as Prime Minister. The government has given great importance to the education sector, understanding that true national transformation depends on fundamental changes within the education system.

The education reforms planned for 2026 are not just surface adjustments; they aim to develop individuals who are both intellectually competent and morally grounded, ready to excel in the modern world.

The quality of education relies heavily on teachers. While the government can introduce advanced educational technologies and cutting-edge curricula, the ultimate success is determined by the quality of the teacher-student relationship.

One of the main shortcomings of previous education reforms has been the lack of a structured mechanism to ensure that teachers receive the necessary training and knowledge to meet evolving educational demands. Our primary goal is to raise the professional standards of teachers and provide them with comprehensive training and development opportunities.

It is crucial to evaluate whether the current status of teachers in society is satisfactory and whether individuals entering the profession feel pride and fulfillment in their role.

Teaching is a noble profession with the power to shape or hinder a child’s future. For Sri Lanka to achieve meaningful national transformation, it is essential to cultivate a group of educators who possess the competence, dedication, and responsibility needed for such a task. However, we must question whether our teacher training colleges currently offer the necessary environment, resources, and infrastructure for such an education. I am here today to assess whether these conditions are being adequately met.

There has been ongoing discussion regarding the elevation of teacher training colleges to degree-awarding institutions. While structural changes may be made, the more important concern is whether the academic content and curriculum maintain the required standards of excellence.”

After the formal proceedings, attendees took part in an exhibition showcasing works created by trainee teachers and toured the college facilities.

The event was attended by the Chief Incumbent of Kanduruwela Jayanthi Temple and Chief Judicial Sanghanayake of the Northern Province, Venerable Kanduruwela Dhammapala Nayaka Thero; Deputy Minister of Housing Development, T.B. Sarath; Governor of the North Central Province, Wasantha Jinadasa; Member of Parliament, Padmasiri Bandara; Secretary to the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, Nalaka Kaluwewa; Dean of Pulathisi Teachers Training College, M. Chandrasiri Perera, as well as senior government officials, distinguished alumni, students, and other esteemed guests.