Government Targets Common Preschool Curriculum by 2027
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has announced plans to introduce a common preschool curriculum across Sri Lanka by 2027, as part of the Government’s broader efforts to strengthen and standardize early childhood education nationwide.
The Prime Minister, who also serves as Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, made the announcement while attending a certificate awarding ceremony for graduates of the 2023/2024 Preschool Teacher Training Diploma Programme at the Kurunegala Provincial Council Auditorium on June 5.
The diploma programme was conducted by the North Western Preschool Teacher Training College and jointly organized by the Early Childhood Education Development Authority and the North Western Provincial Council. The training college is widely recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s leading state institutions dedicated to the advancement of early childhood education, particularly within the North Western Province.
Addressing the gathering after presenting diploma certificates to the graduates, Dr. Amarasuriya stressed the critical role of preschool education in shaping a child’s future academic and personal development. She described early childhood education as the most important stage in a child’s educational journey and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring access to high-quality preschool education across the country.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of establishing effective supervision and monitoring systems for preschool education programmes in all provinces. She noted that consistent standards and oversight are essential to maintaining quality and ensuring that children receive the best possible start to their education.
Dr. Amarasuriya further revealed that the Government is working closely with the National Education Commission, the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs, and the Ministry of Education to develop the policies, teacher training standards, and regulatory frameworks necessary for the effective implementation and monitoring of early childhood education programmes.
In addition, she announced that arrangements are currently underway to commence preschool teacher training programmes later this year. These initiatives, she said, will play a key role in preparing the sector for the introduction of a unified preschool curriculum across Sri Lanka by 2027.
The planned reforms are expected to enhance the quality and consistency of preschool education nationwide, ensuring that children across all regions receive a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development.
