Drop in Students Entering Higher Education Raises Alarm, Says PM

COLOMBO (News 1st); Prime Minister and Minister of Education Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has raised concerns over a gradual decline in the number of students qualifying for and entering higher education in Sri Lanka, describing the trend as a serious issue for the country.

The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the launch event of the Mahapola Scholarship Programme’s alumni web portal.

Highlighting the issue, Dr. Amarasuriya stated that the number of students progressing from the Ordinary Level examinations into higher education has been decreasing over time. She warned that this poses a significant challenge for the nation, noting that education goes beyond basic literacy.

She emphasised that higher education provides critical training, professional development, and broader global exposure, all of which are essential for producing leadership across every sector in the country.

Expanding access to higher education, not limited only to the university system but across all forms of advanced learning, remains a key priority within national education policy, she added.

Addressing the Mahapola Scholarship Programme, the Prime Minister noted that issues related to delays and inefficiencies were identified following the change of government in 2024. She said that a number of concerns had been raised regarding the timely distribution of scholarships to students.

However, she expressed satisfaction that many of these issues have now been resolved under the current administration. The fund is now being managed more efficiently, ensuring that financial support is delivered to students in a timely manner.

Dr. Amarasuriya further stated that under the improved system, students currently receive a monthly allowance of Rs. 10,000 through the Mahapola Scholarship Fund, describing it as a significant achievement.