The discussion emphasized the need to take appropriate measures to address the challenges arising from delays in investigations conducted in the education sector.
A special discussion between the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, and representatives of the Sri Lanka Teachers’ Service Union and the Principals’ Service Unoin was held at the Governor’s Secretariat this evening – on Saturday (29 August 2026).
During the meeting, the initial focus was on reviewing the progress made in implementing the activities related to the issues discussed at the previous meeting. Particular attention was given to the challenges arising from delays in investigations conducted within the education sector. Although some progress has been made compared to the past, it was noted that the desired level of progress has yet to be achieved. As a possible solution, a proposal was put forward to establish a separate committee dedicated to conducting such investigations.
The teacher and principal transfer policy was also discussed in detail. The progress made regarding inter-provincial transfers and subject-based transfers was reviewed. At the same time, the need to ensure that inter-zonal transfers are carried out through a transparent, fair, and impartial process was emphasized.
The Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education – Northern Province stated that, in accordance with the Governor’s instructions, a mobile service had been implemented to ensure the timely payment of pensions.
Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the payment of hardship allowances to teachers and the letter issued concerning the removal of certain schools from the list of difficult and high-risk areas. Views were also exchanged on additional demands relating to salary increases for teachers.
The proposal to develop 19 schools in the Northern Province was also discussed, with suggestions from the Zonal Education Directors to be sought in this regard. Furthermore, the preparation of an annual calendar at both the Zonal and Provincial levels, as practiced in previous years, was discussed. It was noted that such a calendar would facilitate the proper planning of educational activities and help prevent examinations and competitions from being scheduled on the same day.
Attention was also drawn to the challenges arising in the appointment of Divisional Education Directors.
It was emphasized that all stakeholders should work together through continuous dialogue to find practical solutions to the challenges prevailing in the education sector of the Northern Province, while ensuring that the educational interests of students are given equal consideration alongside the professional interests of teachers and principals.
The discussion was attended by Mahinda Jayasinghe, General Secretary of the Sri Lanka Teachers’ Service Union and Hon. Deputy Minister; M. Jagatheeswaran, Vice President of the Sri Lanka Teachers’ Service Union and Hon. Member of Parliament; S. Sathiyaseelan, Secretary to the Governor of the Northern Province; M. Patrick Diranjan, Secretary to the Northern Provincial Ministry of Education; Kandaiah Bradley Jennett, Additional Provincual Director of Education of the Northern Province; and the Directors of Education of all Education Zones in the Northern Province.
