By Sarath Dissanayake –
Sarath Dissanayake
Free Education and Free Health should not be a Panacea for Granted
Sri Lanka stands out among countries in Asia and globally for a very unique reason, which we all should be proud of as a nation. It is the “free education” from kindergarten to higher education provided free of charge to all children that stands out Sri Lanka from the rest of Asia, and the world. This indeed is a “special privilege” in the true sense of the word, enjoyed by Sri Lankans from childhood through adolescence. For instance, some of us often tend to forget, and take free education for granted as we grow older. I am never hesitant to call myself a product of free education which only a few countries can afford to offer its citizenry. Sri Lanka being among the few countries to offer free health and free education to all its citizens, people ought to make the best use and appreciative of such life-time benefits for what we are today, without a penny being charged from its citizens. In other words, free education and health offered on a gratis basis, at no cost and no strings attached, could be regarded as a “luxury”, that should be neither taken for granted nor overlooked for petty political or personal reasons. Paradoxically, free education and health come at a cost to our own tax payers, and that is precisely why we, being the beneficiaries of such wholesome deeds of our ancestors, should never lose sight of their sacrifices and magnanimity, and for making our lives that much easier and hassle free, with burden-sharing and taking charge of our education and health.
Allocations for education among the lowest in South Asia and globally
It is often said than done that investment in education, indeed is an investment for the future which goes without saying how much it means for a child to be given the optimum education – he/she richly deserves as a child from childhood until adolescence. Sri Lanka’s annual budgetary provisions for education, unfortunately among the lowest in Asia which stand at mere 3%, on an annualized basis which speaks for the step-motherly treatment given to education by successive governments in power, including the NPP. Despite repeated appeals by the academics and influential quarters within the education spectrum every year, the governments of the day haven’t done enough to make a meaningful and pragmatic contribution to increase financial allocations to education, other than paying a mere lip service from time to time. If the Department of Statistics and Census’ annual reports are anything to go by, the education sector allocations, year on year basis over the last 10 years do not show any positive momentum and significant trajectory. Instead it’s quite the opposite, compared to countries in Asia and elsewhere which is why people are often skeptical about the governments’ sincerity in doing justice to poorly managed systems of education and institutions of learning, managed by the authorities across the country, from schools, universities to places of training that matter the most to children. For a comparison purpose, Sri Lanka’s public education spending is among the lowest in South Asia and globally, consistently stuck between 2.5% and 3% of GDP in recent years. This is almost less than half of the 4.5% average for similar developing economies. While other South Asian nations have increased investment, Sri Lanka’s Verite Research and Public Finance.lk, note that “it ranks at the bottom of the region, struggling with chronic under funding and meagre resource allocations”.
Dr Kannangara – A Household Name in Sri Lanka : His Legacy will Remain Eternal
If I were to name my most favorite politician of bygone-era, it is none other than Dr C.W.W. Kannangara, former Minister of Education who has been a house-hold name in Sri Lanka for almost a generation since 1945. It was the late Minister of Education, Dr Kannangara who made education free for all Sri Lankans on 01st October 1945, following his submission of the Free Education Bill to parliament in 1943. These reforms revolutionized Sri Lankan society by providing equal educational opportunities for all, often referred to as the “pearl of great price”, the first of its kind in Asia. If not for his foresight, wisdom and vision, Sri Lanka as a nation wouldn’t have achieved what it had, since independence in 1948, making Sri Lanka and people proud. Suffice it to note, the spirit of free education has been the prime mover of our nation’s strength and, of course, part and parcel of our education system throughout. In fact we are indebted to late Dr Kannangara for taking such a bold, pragmatic and innovative step, and making education free for all. It is with pride, I recollect delivering a brief anecdotal speech during my childhood in honor and praise of late Dr Kannangara, in which I even made a passing remark and told those in the audience to have his photograph framed and hung in each of their households, though I stopped short of asking them to worship him, for what he had been to all our children. It is apt to consider declaring “Kannangara Day” throughout our schools, in recognition and appreciation of his pioneering role of championing Free Education for all Sri Lankans.
Why We Should Embrace Education Reforms – A Trajectory
To my mind, the word education signifies the holistic cultivation of the mind, character, and spirit, rather than mere rote memorization or job training. Rooted in the Latin educare (to nourish) and educere (to lead out), it represents a lifelong process of illuminating the intellect, fostering wisdom, and enabling personal growth.
In fact, educational reform involves planned, systemic changes to school structures, curricula, teacher training, and funding, aiming to enhance learning outcomes, increase equity, and modernize education for all students. Of course, the key focus areas include integrating technology, improving teacher quality, and aligning standards with 21st-century workforce needs, while major reforms often tackle school choice, accountability, and student support.
Be that as it may, I cannot help but thinking, perhaps so do others, why there have been no attempts to bring in pragmatic reforms or forward looking policies to the education sector for quite some time, except for the HNCE and NCGE curriculums introduced in 1970s (with modules on vocational education and training for students from grade 6-9) by the SLFP government of Premier Sirimavo Bandaranaike, and Mahapola Scholarship Scheme of late Higher Education Minister, Lalith Athulathmudali etc. Taking advantage of the NCGE and HNCE curriculum introduced in 1970’s, I was fortunate enough to study vocational training and development modules full time, from grades 6-9, meant to empower and equip students in a wide range of theoretical and practical vocational streams (from mechanical, electronic, automobile, to carpentry, masonry, agriculture), which had been very resourceful in post-school career development prospects of school leavers. However, to the dismay of many, NCGE and HNCE syllabuses were discontinued with the advent of the new government in 1977. Since then, there had been no apparent moves to introduce any reforms to education up until now.
Education Reforms – The Way-Forward
It is usual that educational materials such as curriculums and syllabuses in schools and education institutions become out-dated with the passage of time, needing introduction of reforms at regular intervals. But this is easier said than done as it involves a myriad of spheres and layers, dealing with an entire landscape of multi-stakeholders, spread out in a wide-range of systems and processes. It is indeed a mammoth tedious process requiring a complete overhaul of hitherto prevailing educational materials, systems and procedures, starting from navigation to scrutinizing all standardized systems of operations (SOP) within a given time line / frame, so as to accomplishing the intended education reforms, with precision accuracy, clarity and quality. Adopting reforms on a staggered basis is the norm, and should not be implemented in toto, sans a pilot project of a miniscule scale to begin with, and then implementing the reforms on the projected scale after reviewing and adopting any changes or revisions to the initial reforms as appropriate with the larger picture in focus. Ideally, the sample size and scope of the pilot project may vary depending on the timeline and parameters to be drawn up, including bench-marks and KPIs’, as part of the reform action plan and operational framework. The education reforms to be introduced should not be a mere stop-gap-measure, but must be done after a thorough study and scrutiny, in tune with latest trends and national requirements, based on government policy decisions in terms of short, medium and long terms goals and objectives as clearly set out in the national policy guidelines, with clearly defined parameters and KPI’s, in tandem with the overall national plan of action.
Furthermore, all education reforms should be in commensurate, and in conformity with Sri Lanka’s future trajectory, in keeping with trends and momentum elsewhere in regional and international theatre of operations, so as to catching up with future demand and supply of human resource chains / trajectories in the world, taking into account the rapid transformations and advancements in technology, industrial, value-addition and multifaceted spheres of interest viz-a-viz our local entrepreneurs and businesses companies in the production, export, investment spheres, with a focus on competitors, counterparts, regional players and international stakeholders.
Education Reforms – should be left in the hands of Experts and Specialists
Suffice it to note, advocating education reforms on adhoc basis may not yield the desired effect and impact on the ground, and thereby will not make the system any better, as shown throughout history. So let’s not repeat history, and instead we must be brutally honest and serious with education reforms, which should not be left in the hands of novices, but with people of wisdom, foresight and commitment. After all, it is not just reforms per se, meant to last a month or year, but for the sake of a generation of students. Let’s not commit ourselves to reforms unless we ourselves cannot grasp its gravity with the seriousness it deserves. Ideally any reforms to education should be under the direct purview and supervision of the Education Minister and Secretary, who have proven their worth beyond any doubt. The reform process ideally, should be in the hands of subject experts, familiar with the task at hand, without compromising the integrity, commitment and expertise needed to undertake such a mammoth and cumbersome process with honesty, courage and determination. Being an academic herself, Dr Amarasuriya is well equipped and well placed to handle the task with her far-sighted vision and wisdom, together with her able team of experts in order to bring in much needed innovative, progressive and comprehensive reforms for the next generation of children, inter-alia, for the advancement of Sri Lanka’s human capital and human resources needed to embrace changes and adaptability in line with world trends and advancements. Alas, lacking sound judgement often can come as a cropper, specially in introducing education reforms, unless it is done meticulously and methodically. As such the introduction of reforms on education, needs fine-tuning and careful consideration of the entire gamut of matters then and there, and review of pros and cons by experts in the field, in a spirit of collective responsibility and cohesiveness.
Grade 6 curriculum episode – “Don’t miss the forest for the trees”
Of course there can be setbacks in handling education reforms, as was witnessed recently in the aftermath of the ongoing education reforms being introduced to school curriculum by the current administration. The unfortunate episode laid bare recently was a case in point, in which the accidental detection of a sexually explicit link / content in the newly introduced students text book of grade 6, opened a Pandora’s Box, raising more questions than answers. The opposition politicians and trade unionists went to town accusing the government of wrong doing, and blaming the Prime Minister for gross negligence in handling such a sensitive matter, despite repeated warnings not to go ahead with the so-called scandalous reform process, citing serious allegations. The members of the Maha Sangha too joined the fray, targeting the education ministry for the alleged lapses, with blame-game on, finger-pointing and accusing none other than the Prime Minister herself for the sordid episode, against which the latter defended her innocence blaming it on a technical or human error. Of course, the sad turn of events led to a massive uproar in parliament, while both sides of the political divide traded charges and counter charges against each other to the point of demanding the Prime Minister’s resignation in her capacity as the Minister of Education. In fact, a high level committee appointed to look into this saga, had recommended the suspension of key officials in the National Education Council, and had followed suit as per committee’s recommendation. Since then, the matter had subsided for the time being, with a temporary suspension being imposed on text books being circulated among Grade 6 students and schools in toto. But, to make matters worse, the exposure of the questionable website in the students’ text book had led to jeopardizing the entire process to a stalemate. As the famous adage goes “don’t miss the forest for the trees”, “don’t miss the forest for the trees” is often said that one should not lose sight of the bigger picture for trivial details.
My anecdotal experience as a teacher in a village school
Education, inherently is not a zero sum game, and guess what, I have my two-cents-worth to drive my point home. In essence, education reforms stood something closer to my heart back in the day, being a student-turned-Science & Maths teacher in 1981, soon after my AL exam. Since then, I have become fairly conversant with the formal teaching atmosphere of a class-room setting at a school in my home-town of Matara. In my brief stint of teaching science and maths to OL students, I could very well adapt myself to the vagaries of the highly tense situation prevailing in a typical class room of over 30 students, and what I was expected as a young teacher. In fact the school was located in close proximity to our home so that I could bike back and forth to school within such a short period of time. Indeed, I was lucky to be assigned grade 10 students, and had the fortune of gaining first hand – hands on experience. It was a life-time and mutually rewarding experience which will linger in my memory forever. I was doubly lucky to be close to my mother, and she herself was a teacher in a nearby school at the time, who blessed and stood by me always. My mother was such a mentor and inspiration to me, yet it was heart breaking when I had to bid farewell and leave her alone at home as I stepped into my 4-year university life.
It’s Giving Back time to the Motherland
I am indeed proud and happy to have started my career as a teacher, in what could be considered as the most noble profession in Sri Lanka, perhaps in the context of the overarching mindset of our generations of educationists and academia. Of course, after my brief stint as a teacher, I moved up the ladder with time, to become an Agronomist, Researcher, Banking Executive, Civil Servant, Administrator, and last but not the least, a Diplomat in the latter part of my career. When looking back, I have no regrets over my career accomplishments and progression. Above all, I pretty much think that my teaching experience to be the best and most rewarding, though it only lasted barely a year before stepping into the university for my higher education. Indeed teaching has been a mutually rewarding profession, that I truly valued and cherished with students and teachers alike, doing what I am fond of, rendering my two-cents’worth to students in our village, not far from where our ancestral home was. Upon my retirement after 31 years of public service, I have assumed yet another teaching assignment (Robotics), and am pleased to have been back in my good old teaching profession, and to be able to catch up from where I left off 45 years ago. After-all, it’s my giving back time to the motherland, having benefitted enormously from free education for almost 12 years, firstly as a school student for 12 years, and then as an undergraduate for 4 years, which I enjoyed to the fullest as the most rewarding years of my life. To sum it up, I have completed a total of 31 years of service, holding 8 multi-disciplinary jobs, before joining the Sri Lanka Diplomatic Service and finally, back to teaching once more, which is my favorite. But, I can’t wait to return home, Sri Lanka, where I belong.
The Pride of Sri Lanka – A song dedicated to all Sri Lankans
Sri Lankans are a privileged lot, and should not lose sight of what we have collectively inherited from our forefathers. It reminds me of a song, one of my life-time favorites, dedicated to all Sri Lankans – “Sasara wasana thuru Niwan dakina thuru pinketha hela ran derane yali upadinnata hethu wasana wewa hethu wasana” – By W.D. Amaradewa
This song is conceptualized, based on Sri Lanka’s proud history, beauty, serenity, tranquility and prosperity. Sri Lanka, once called the “Granary of Asia” (being self-sufficient in staple food), “Serendipity” (being a world-renowned trade route – Silk Route), “Paradise in the Indian ocean” (being an exotic year-round destination), a “Thrice-blessed-island” (being inhabited by spiritually enriched people), and last but not the least, a “Dream” destination (being the most friendly Asian destination, offering most exquisite cuisine anywhere in the world. This song reminds us of the context in which it was first sung and why it remains an all-time-favorite-hit for a generation of Sri Lankans, and one of my-life-time favorites too. In essence, the song itself is a reason for us to be proud of ourselves as Sri Lankans, amidst our island nation being an inspiration, reason and purpose to live our dream of ultimate destiny of becoming liberated and rid ourselves from the from cycle of rebirth and death once and for all, which is the one and only life-long wish and dream of every devout Buddhist in the world.
*The writer is a retired Ambassador and Foreign Ministry Spokesman. He can be reached at schandrad@hotmail.com
leelagemalli / February 22, 2026
In a country like Sri Lanka, where citizens have long awaited meaningful and well-structured educational reform, the recent approach taken by the Ministry has sparked deep concern.
Reform is not the issue—indeed, it is urgently needed—but the manner and priorities of its introduction have raised serious questions.
Many were unsettled that the reform process appeared to begin with Gender/Sex Education rather than first addressing long-standing structural and curriculum deficiencies. Even more troubling was the apparent haste, with insufficient space for educational experts, child psychologists, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to engage in thoughtful review.
Compounding this was the unacceptable number of printing errors in the Grade 6 textbook, an oversight that undermines public confidence. Given that the current government came to power criticizing previous administrations for poor standards and lack of professionalism, such lapses are especially disappointing.
As Minister of Education, Dr Harini Amarasuriya—an academic with a respected university background—was expected to model precision, seriousness, and consultation in reform.
Instead, what many hoped would be a new chapter in educational excellence now feels like a fragile promise shattered by preventable mistakes. In any nation, whether developing or developed, the Minister of Education must ultimately bear responsibility for such failures. Educational reform demands not only vision, but careful planning, expert consultation, and uncompromising attention to quality.
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Nathan / February 23, 2026
Appreciate the comment, leelagemalli.
(I would have avoided including religious leaders … .)
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old codger / February 23, 2026
“I am never hesitant to call myself a product of free education which only a few countries can afford to offer its citizenry. Sri Lanka being among the few countries to offer free health and free education to all its citizens, people ought to make the best use and appreciative of such life-time benefits for what we are today, without a penny being charged from its citizens. “
That statement doesn’t reflect ground realities in many ways.
“without a penny being charged from its citizens. “. Come on, really? Who pays salaries? Who pays for buildings? Are the Chinese paying?
No, most of us consumers of these services might not pay direct taxes, but we all pay indirectly through taxes on every grain of parippu or rice, and many other things we buy.
Be that as it may, what do we actually get? Do we really get all the medicines we want , or are we directed to the private pharmacy?
As for education, how is it that tuition masters grab their victims starting even at grade 1?
Is it not better to get parents (and patients) to pay some nominal amount for a better service, instead of patting ourselves on the back for dubious accomplishments?
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schandrad / February 24, 2026
Yes of course, as the old saying goes, there’s “no such thing called free lunch”. today. What I implied here was the “spirit” in which the Free Education Bill was introduced in 1945 by Dr Kannangara, as it was meant to be absolutely free with no strings attached whatsoever. But with the passage of time, the stated emphasis of “free education” has taken twists and turns, and has eventually lost it meaning. Trust this clarifies the position
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leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
Mr Nathan, thanks,
Sri Lanka must move toward a political culture that is free from religious manipulation, where faith is not exploited by politicians for power, division, or electoral gain.
At the same time, this does not mean religion has no role in national rebuilding. In a country like Sri Lanka, which has endured decades of conflict culminating in the civil war that ended in 2009, society still bears deep moral and social wounds. Rising crime, declining public discipline, abusive public behavior, and the reckless misuse of digital platforms reveal a troubling erosion of values.
Technology, which should uplift and educate, is often misused like a weapon in irresponsible hands—spreading gossip, exaggeration, and division for profit and popularity.
Similarly, political power gained through false promises and emotional manipulation has led to disappointment and stagnation, with leaders proving more vocal in opinion than capable in action. In this fragile post-war context, genuine religious leadership—grounded not in politics but in moral courage, discipline, and compassion—must step forward to guide the youth toward integrity, responsibility, and service. True religious missions, when detached from political ambition, have the power to reform deteriorating societies and restore them to a path of dignity, unity, and ethical strength.
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Nathan / February 26, 2026
leelagemalli,
… genuine religious leadership—grounded not in politics but in moral courage, discipline, and compassion—
Notwithstanding your rationale for religious leadership, I disagree.
We have a moral compass within ourselves. It falters under the type of influence the religious leadership in Sri Lanka exerts.
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LankaScot / February 23, 2026
Hello Leelagemalli,
If our fondly remembered Sinhala Man was still here, he would have a field day with the Author’s Article. I don’t usually make comments on anyone’s use of English, however if you have written an erudite Article on Education Reform, at least run it through a Grammar Checker before posting it, and maybe a Readability Analysis too. His use of English idioms/analogies is also a bit awry e.g. “don’t miss the forest for the trees” would be better as “Can’t see the forest for the trees” In the UK “Can’t see the wood for the trees” is the most common. How about Sri Lanka?
I also have objections to the overall “Jingoistic” tone throughout the Article and the Nostalgic longing for a non-existent Rose-Tinted Past.
But maybe I am being too harsh and there is a difference between UK English and Sri Lankan English. Either way let me know.😎.
Best regards
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leelagemalli / February 24, 2026
Dear LS,
I’m afraid I know nothing about the author. I don’t think he’s an English specialist or anything. However, Lester has lauded him below. Yes, I occasionally miss SINHALA_MAN. But, as my neighbor (my father ersatz, an 87-year-old German) used to say, we shall all die one day.
–
Among English speakers in Sri Lanka, the most common version is:
“Can’t see the forest for the trees”.
Because Sri Lankan English follows more international/US usage in media and education, this version is more common than the British “wood” version.
The UK form “Can’t see the wood for the trees” is understood but less commonly said.
I believe what is commonly spoken in Sri Lanka is a combination of what they received from colonial overlords, whereas UK English is the origin of English.
Also, I learned that the idioms used by some African colleagues differ from those used in the South Asian region.
You may be more familiar with the variety of English usage because you have interacted with people from all over the world.
I’ve learned various variances between Sirlanken and South African English. The same was true for Ghanaian and Nigerian English.
Tbc
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Nathan / February 24, 2026
leelagemalli,
I step in just out of nostalgia.
Nigeria has a wonderful way of showcasing English diction!
– I had branched out on my way to work.
This was how a policeman explained his absence when I found him missing!
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LankaScot / February 24, 2026
Hello Nathan,
He was looking for Christmas “Dash”. You could have said “Put your branch back in your trousers and get back to work”. Most of the Lagos Police had quite a few “Girls” under their protection.
The newspapers were also hilarious, I can’t remember if it was the Daily Sun or another one that was notorious for outrageous posts.
Best regards
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schandrad / February 24, 2026
Thanks. Of course, I am no expert nor linguist myself to “get down to the nitty-gritty” of English grammar, whether it be British, American or Sri Lankan. All I wanted was to convey my message in simple and plain English to the best of my ability. Yes there may be differences in the way you interpret the use of English idioms /analogies, which I leave it for others to ponder.
AI interpretation of the the said idiom is posted below for ready reference.
“Don’t miss the forest for the trees” is an idiom warning against focusing too heavily on small, minor details (the trees) to the point of losing sight of the overall, big-picture situation or goal (the forest). It urges taking a step back to understand the broader context and main objectives, rather than getting caught up in minutiae.
Hope the above helps the query.
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old codger / February 24, 2026
LS,
In Mr. SCD’s defence, perhaps his English writing isn’t as bad as my Sinhala writing. The English taught in schools here in the last 50 or so years was carefully curated to remove foreign cultural influences. So, recommended reading didn’t involve Lady Chatterley or Marie Corelli. You probably know that Sinhala is inextricably entwined with Buddhism.
I agree about the nostalgia though. We tend to forget what the past was really like as we age. It happens to all of us. Except some Wanni residents.
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old codger / February 24, 2026
LS,
Sri Lankan English does have its peccadilloes. Check out this Parliamentary committee, which makes me think of a group of people sitting uncomfortably on high poles:
https://www.dailymirror.lk/breaking-news/Sri-Lanka-names-new-Ambassadors-to-Ethiopia-and-Iran/108-333779
In Sri Lanka, “post” is used commonly to mean “appointment”. There is no such ambiguity in the original Sinhala title.
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LankaScot / February 24, 2026
Hello OC,
It reminded me of the Sri Lankan Fishermen sitting on their high poles in the Sea that we used to see in TV Documentaries😎.
Best regards
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schandrad / February 24, 2026
Come on Folks, Your comments over a trivial matter (Don’t miss the forest for the trees), though seemed hilarious, remind me of yet another saying ‘Don’t kill the Messenger”, and goes on to prove the point, albeit in lighter vein, ” Old-habits die hard” and the prevalence of “jungle law” in the minds of the so-called old-fashioned “local kalu-suddas”, at a time even the old monarchies (British, South African, Ghanian Nigerian, and the list goes on on on) have come of the age. Come on guys, get your act together.
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old codger / February 25, 2026
schandrad,
No malice intended, but if you go through his CT posts over the years, you will find that Scot isn’t a local but a real “sudu-suddha”.
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SJ / February 25, 2026
oc
To some characters any critical comment deserves a personal counterattack.
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leelagemalli / February 27, 2026
Schandrad – LS didn’t want to discourage you. In US English, the idiom is used with “forests” rather than “wood”. So just leave it and let us see how it goes. Btw, Sri Lanka FM is supposed to have arrived in Germany. I don’t think he’ll end up delighting the crowd in the same way his ministerial colleague did at the World Economic Forum. You, the former diplomats, should make a polite request to the government, asking them to accompany an interpreter, because these meetings are regarded critical if we are to succeed in attracting more investors.
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chiv / February 25, 2026
SD , with your vast experience, 31 years of public service, holding 8 multidisciplinary jobs you would have figured it’s the same person.
Lester aka Lester@
Who else makes such illogical sweeping statements.
Most SriLankans are only interested in talking and not good at reading or grasping.
Students will always cheat.
Most rock musicians are heavy drug users.
Performance enhancing drugs are essential for top athletes.
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schandrad@hotmail.com / February 24, 2026
Thanks for your opinion. Your seemingly assertion that the government appeared to have (1) gotten urgent – priority considerations (urgent structural reforms, curriculum deficiencies) mixed up with mundane matters (gender/sex), (2) overlooked professionalism, excellence and due diligence (3) applied undue haste in pushing the reforms forward, often resulting in unforeseen errors and lapses (4) sidelined stakeholders, process and protocol, (5) not addressed priority and urgent issues with seriousness, so on and so forth, cannot be overstated. I certainly see the merits of your arguments and justification. Of course, although you may not agree fully with the substance of my article in toto, I did touch upon some of your concerns in a different tone and context, albeit, perhaps using different terminology and wording. ( refer paras 3,4,5,6,7 ) Trust the above helps and clarifies
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Lester@ / February 23, 2026
Dear H.E Sarath,
This is another superb piece and eye opener, proving your Brilliance in writing skills and eloquence on a timely and worthy subject. But your articles seems too good for Srilankans since most of them are only interested in “talking ” and not good at “reading or grasping”. Nevertheless, people like you must continue to write on what’s best for our people and let them know what our education system is lacking and what needs to be done in reforming it, for the sake of our children. For a beautiful Great Srilanka.
Please keep up your Excellent work.
For a Great Future.
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Lester / February 23, 2026
There is a fake Lester with a @ at the end. A low IQ Tamil terrorist.
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schandrad / February 24, 2026
Thanks, But I do not fully subscribe to your points of view, in that it is not fully understood what you meant by “only interested in “talking ” and not good at “reading or grasping”. Would you please clarify what you meant by the words “only interested in “talking ” and not good at “reading or grasping”. To me, this sounds bit of over-thinking and exaggeration.
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Lester / February 24, 2026
Schandrad:
To clarify, I am the real Lester. The Lester@, is a fake id created by the user named “Old Codger.” He/she/it/ is a gay Muslim man/woman/tranny? who has created at least 30 fake ID’s on this website (can be easily verified since WordPress records IP addresses). He uses these ID’s to spam the forum with pornographic rubbish (various references to male genitalia.) The CT moderator, Uvindu, makes little effort to moderate this forum, likely because he has a vendetta against Gothabaya, whom he perceives as hostile to journalists.
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lester@@ / February 24, 2026
Schandrad:
To clarify, I am the real Lester. The Lester, is a fake id created by the user named “Deepthi Silva.” He/she/it/ is a gay Muslim man/woman/tranny? who has created at least 30 fake ID’s on this website .
She uses these ID’s to spam the forum with pornographic rubbish (various references to other people’s wives or mothers.) The fake Lester hacked my identity through WordPress.
Being an intelligent person, you can see that this fake is mentally unhinged, with ludicrous statements like “In my opinion, the Sri Lankan government should revoke their citizenship (if they have it), seize all their assets, and deport any relatives, “
As a true Buddhist, people like you must continue to write on what’s best for our people and let them know what our education system is lacking and what needs to be done in reforming it, for the sake of our children. For a beautiful Great Srilanka.
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Lester / February 24, 2026
In regards to the article itself, the primary purpose of education is to secure gainful employment. Gainful employment should translate into higher GDP (this is the benefit to society). Unfortunately, due to decades of Tamil and now Muslim terrorism, the resulting brain drain has created mostly a stagnant economy. The well-educated will, therefore attempt to leave the country, since the earning potential is significantly higher. The brain drain is not unique to Sri Lanka. You can see it in China (at least prior to 2020), India, Russia, etc. The government should do what it can to alleviate the brain drain. However, as you may be aware, the Tamil Diaspora is still petitioning various international organizations to sanction Sri Lanka. In my opinion, the Sri Lankan government should revoke their citizenship (if they have it), seize all their assets, and deport any relatives, as Trump successfully did in the USA. In fact, these deportations in Sri Lanka should have begun 60 years ago. I digress.
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schandrad / February 25, 2026
Thanks Lester.
Read my piece titled “Sri Lanka at Crossroads : A Clarion Call for Course Correction” in the CT of 29th December of 2025.
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/sri-lanka-at-crossroads-viz-a-viz-youth-a-clarion-call-for-course-correction/
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Lester / February 26, 2026
Schandrad,
Having looked at your article, it seems you and I have some convergent perspectives. Here is a summary of some of my proposals:
1.) Sue India in an international court of arbitration for inciting terrorism. Use the proceeds to pay off some of the national debt
2.) Seize the assets of Tamil Diaspora and deport their relatives
3.) Give citizens access to foreign markets
4.) Sell some land to foreign countries. For example, sell Jaffna to China. A Chinese colony would enable technology transfer to Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe is a good example. The White farmers are able to generate a massive agricultural surplus for that country. China could also build a military base there as a safeguard against foreign incursion. The Sri Lankan military could modernize
5.) Promote birth control among the Muslim population. If this is not done, it will lead to future conflict
6.) Use AI to modernize the education system
/
lester@@ / February 26, 2026
Schandrad,,
“Having looked at your article, it seems you and I have some convergent perspectives.”
I do hope you have no convergent perspectives with this fascist pirate “Lester.”.
Do not even reply to his insane comments. He might use them to hack your identity too.
Real Lester.
/
schandrad / February 26, 2026
Dear L,
Please refer to my write up at https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/what-ails-foreign-ministry-missions-abroad-from-going-digital-fully-automated/
Hope this would shed some light on your query. Regards
/
Lester / February 23, 2026
I have successfully blocked the fake.
// 🚫 Block-list: always remove these names even if they appear in safeUsers
const blockedUsers = [
/
old codger / February 24, 2026
“I have successfully blocked the fake”
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
/
leelagemalli / February 24, 2026
Lester’s wounds have been totally treated. 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Lester, aka Deepthi, is now exposed to the world. Karmic Retribution is not entirely inaccurate.
/
LankaScot / February 24, 2026
Hello OC,
I noticed that you had been called out for offensive language. It is very seldom, maybe this is a first for me, that I agree with any right wing Media Personality, however I watched Katie Hopkins at the Cambridge Union and find myself in agreement with her – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXQmf6DLhEo
Rowan Atkinson, a Human Rights Supporter, has also said similar things about the right to be offensive – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BiqDZlAZygU&t=51s
Keep up the good work, even if someone makes fun of me, that’s their right. As Rowan Atkinson says “If we want a robust society, we need more robust dialogue that must include the right to insult or to offend”
Best regards
/
old codger / February 25, 2026
LS,
It seems that the words “hairy old woman” are more offensive than “you married a pro******”. 😉
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LankaScot / February 25, 2026
Hello OC,
In the UK the/libellous last comment that you quoted would be considered slanderous. I shall have a word with the “well known “Human Rights Lawyer”, Keir Starmer.
Best regards
/
old codger / February 25, 2026
LS,
Katie keeps calling her opponent “darling”, I see. Should I sue her for plagiarism?
/
leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
LS,
what choices do we have on this forum today ?
–
For far too long, Lester/Deepthi/The Truth have abused their pen, leaving no decency, and CT-admin has been completely oblivious. Recently, Lester suggested that Chive’s mother could be a prostitute in another post. Can you imagine how deep a self-proclaimed intellectual has fallen?
And I sometimes get the impression that Lester and his various avatars have complete control of the “thumb machine.”
I believe the current situation of the CT forum is beyond all ABUSIVE levels.
/
lester@@ / February 24, 2026
“// 🚫 Block-list: always remove these names even if “
To all, please ignore this fake who has hacked my identity.
Thanks,
Real Lester.
/
Jaffna Man / February 25, 2026
After reading my comment on my computerr, my wife who did chemistry special in the late 1970s, says most of her instructors knew little English, resented those students who knew any English and ignored Tamil students who asked questions in English.
They conducted the labs in Sinhalese.
It is relevant to ask if they, the Tamil students, should have felt any gratitude for this free education system.
/
Jaffna Man / February 25, 2026
1. Are you writing for the Singhalese only? ““Sasara wasana thuru Niwan dakina thuru pinketha hela ran derane yali upadinnata hethu wasana wewa hethu wasana” – By W.D. Amaradewa”
I am lost. A translation would have been appreciated.
2. Kannangara cannot hog the credit for free education. As Prabhath de
Silva repeated points out and is repeatedly ignored, we must read of the contrubutions of the Methodist Missionary James Darrell. Written in the Island (11 July 2020, ( “Unsung And Forgotten Heroes of Free Education and Sri Lanka’s Missed Opportunities”) even that is suppressed in the archives of the Island presumaby because some do not like it.
Thankfully it is reproduced in Thuppahi’s blog: https://thuppahis.com/2020/07/12/free-education-for-ceylon-tales-missing/
3. I do not feel particularly grateful to the educational system as does the author above — see my book “The Story of Standardization”
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schandrad / February 25, 2026
Thanks. I am so sorry for not giving at least a gist of the song in english. Let me post a link below through which you will be able to read the lyrics of the song, in both English and Sinhala, and listen to the song.
Hope this would help you understand the context in which the song was quoted at the end of my write-up. I will reply to the rest of your query soon.
https://www.smule.com/song/w-d-amaradewa-sasara-wasana-thuru-karaoke-lyrics/1030893606_2530972/arrangement
/
Lester / February 25, 2026
Toilet Nadu has a 69% quota for Dalits/non-Brahmins. So some guy from the village who probably attended school in a shed gets chosen over a Sundar Pichai type. No wonder S Valley is full of Brahmins.
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leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
Dear Readers,
I believe we should learn more about Lester’s background.
For everyone’s convenience, I’ve included a link to his origin below. If he does not want to reveal it, why not us?
Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ojqIAj-Xv5E&t=1884s.
My grandmothers never condemned them, but they often advised us as children not to associate with them. The same is true for Sygoina/Roma and travelers in some European countries.
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LankaScot / February 26, 2026
Hello Leelagemalli,
I am pretty sure that the Roma, Scottish Travellers, Irish Travellers, English Romanies and the Rodiya have common ancestors. I base my beliefs not just on the DNA Evidence, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12003505/
but also my experience growing up alongside the Scottish Traveller Community and the Rodiya individuals that I know here.
The legend about some of them picking up Egyptian DNA on the way to Europe is probably correct. My friend Donald and his Father could both have passed for Egyptians.
On a different note, I am sure that Native Vedda is right, they are the Indigenous Peoples –
“Based on morphometric similarities, present-day Adivasi [Vedda] are proposed to have descended from Mesolithic hunter-gatherers or the “Balangoda” people found in cave and rockshelter sites such as Kuruwita-Batadomba-lena and Kitulgala-Belilena that date back to ~28,000–7,000 years before present.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12242918/
Best regards
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Lester / February 27, 2026
Readers can decide “Leela’s” background for themselves. Why is this individual hiding their real name, Babalawathie? After attending a government school in Galle, he/she is trying to use ChatGPT to hide their broken English. Champa noticed this in the thread about AI. Read what this person wrote and decide if they are sane.
babalawathie D / December 2, 2019
2
0
“Why is that too early, all the low level idiots arein his cabinet. Compared to that of Mr Wickramasinghe, most of them flanked to GOTABAYA the born killer is all thugs AND ones with high crime allegations. Who is missing there is the guy who threw CHILIE POWER on the speaker be appointed as someone.
That kudu thakkadiya from Negambo too is given a ministerial position, can you imagine guys ? Gota and his brother will have to be hung by their balls sooner than later, i WISH the grass eaters dominated srilnaka be healed off being able to realize the ground realities of the bunch of thugs.”
https://www.colombotelegraph.com/index.php/reflections-on-a-mahinda-state-versus-a-gota-state-puzzle-two-versions-of-rajapaksa-authoritarianism/
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SJ / February 25, 2026
“Kannangara cannot hog the credit for free education.”
There is much difference between making it available to all and personal charity.
Appreciating one’s good deeds need not be at the cost of running down another’s.
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schandrad / February 25, 2026
Dear All,
Having penned my tenth article (10th) in a row, over a period of 2-3 months, I am more confused than ever, on the prospects of peace, with the kind of war of words among the so-called kalu-suddas and sudu-suddas. I am utterly disappointed to the point of giving-up writing altogether,. After-all, being an advocate of peace and clamoring for equity and social justice, I am beginning to see the complete opposite, with no semblance of peace even among our distinguished CT readership. Over to you !
/
old codger / February 25, 2026
Dear schandrad,
I suppose this is a new experience for you, that your audience talks back to you? That’s what is different about CT. This is certainly not the Daily Noise or the Daily Error. You ought to have gone through the archives.
If you are actually an advocate of peace and equity, you should be able to justify any position you take.
Please do continue, but be prepared to take brickbats as well as bouquets.
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
Thanks OC. My concern is 3 incognito “Lesters” have emerged on and off claiming to be real, of whom at least 2 turned out to be fake. Yet nobody seemed to know who is real, who are fake, albeit, all of them appeared to be at each others’ throat, and we being kept in limbo.
/
SJ / February 26, 2026
This reminds me of a Real S**** S******** S***** who decided become and dropped the ‘Real’ from the name. I guess that ‘RSS’ had certain negative implications.
If someone says something useful or exciting people would read with interest.
All this nonsense about real and unreal is because a few are obsessed with their sense of self importance.
/
chiv / February 26, 2026
Mr. Schandrad, you should be more concerned about the one who claims to share illogical , racist opinions with you. .
Sue India, seize assets and deport Tamils. forced birth control of Muslims , sell minority land to China. . . . .
😅😂🤣🤣😂😅
Is that true ??
Try disagreeing and he will abuse your women folks
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
OC, Certainly, I can’t agree with you more. CT being a high visibility and highly interactive public form, the writers (columnists) ought to maintain highest standards, inter-alia, justify and standby whatever they publish in its entirety. I can vey well imagine what a writer is expected of in CT, as opposed to any other mediocre platform that only skims the surface of the topic. Regards
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LankaScot / February 25, 2026
Hello schandrad,
Please don’t give up calling for Educational Reform. I am currently teaching some English to my Sinhalese Grandchildren aged between 4 and 12. I use some of the Oxford Materials (which I bought in Colombo) as I don’t like the Material produced in Sri Lanka or India. The Schools use outdated and anachronistic books, some of which have quite a few grammatical errors. Their use of English Idioms is appropriate for the Victorian/Edwardian Age. The children are very adept at copying Text from the Whiteboard or Computer Screen, however have difficulty reading the same back to you. It seems the teaching of English Phonics is sadly lacking in Primary Schools.
One of my Relations teaches at a Montesorri School and doesn’t know any English. Very few of the Teachers are fluent in English. We have decided to set up an informal Class for some of the Teachers, starting soon. Up here in the Central Province Mountains I have been told that my IT Class is better provisioned than most Primary Schools in the area.
Best regards
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
Dear LS, Good luck with your plans to set up teacher-training class. Please let le know if I can be of any help from this end, i.e, setting up, provision of teaching material, manuals or anything else you are short of – for students and teachers. If a need arises, I am more than happy to help. Best regards
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lester@@ / February 26, 2026
Chandrad,
I am the real Lester. As I said before, my identity has been hacked by some idiot who is a Tamil from Toothukudi. I agree fully with your efforts to build unity, unlike “Lester” who takes every opportunity to insult Muslims, women, and other commenters. I think he suffers from some inferiority complex.
Real Lester
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
L, Thanks for holding down the fort, which kept me in suspense, and guessing all this time. Regards
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LankaScot / February 26, 2026
Hello schandrad,
Thanks very much for your offer, at present it’s purely informal. I have 8 Laptops (Win 10) connected to Port Replicators and 24″ Screens. The Teacher’s Laptop can connect to the Projector and Sound System. All are connected to a single Private Domain Controller and Exchange Server via an Ethernet Network connected to an HP Server. I can connect to the Internet on the Teacher’s Laptop if required via SLT.
I will let you know how it goes and see if they want to do anything more. By the way I have a PGCE in Adult Education and a Certificate in TEFL. Most recently I spent 11 years teaching IT and Radar on a Middle East Project (where I met my Sri Lankan Wife) and now live in Central Province.
Best regards
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
Hi LS, Thanks. By the way, my apologies for my earlier remarks (kalu suddas and sudu suddas), though no offense meant to hurt or disrespect anybody whatsoever. Cheers
/
leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
1/2
There has long been debate in Sri Lanka about the role of English as a second or official language. The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) has historically opposed strengthening English as a national or official language. This position has had long-term consequences, particularly in higher education and professional development.
–
Many students who entered Sri Lankan universities during earlier decades graduated with limited English proficiency. Today, some of these graduates struggle to deliver even a short speech in English. Instead of acknowledging this gap and working to improve their language skills, some choose to criticize those who are proficient in English.
–
Tbc
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leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
2/2
This issue becomes more visible in the political sphere. For example, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, who holds a doctorate and is fluent in English, reportedly did not receive significant publicity after attending the World Economic Forum in Davos. In contrast, foreign visits by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake have received prominent media attention.
–
There are also concerns about the President’s limited English proficiency and how this may affect direct communication with international leaders during foreign visits. In global diplomacy, effective communication is essential. While interpreters can bridge language gaps, it is important for leaders to respect and effectively utilize such support when needed.
–
Ultimately, the broader issue is not about attacking individuals, but about recognizing the importance of language skills in a globalized world. English remains a key language in diplomacy, higher education, trade, and international cooperation. Encouraging language development — rather than dismissing it — would better serve the country’s long-term interests.
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leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
Schandrad, February 25, 2026
I’m sorry you took it so personally. I believe you have conveyed to the readers the necessity of educational changes in this nation. I believe that you should feel free to voice your opinions if you have the guts and time to do so.
As a former deplomat, you might be better equipped to respond to my other query. Why have our elected governments not yet used diplomatic channels to obtain professional assistance, although Indonesia and India have done so with Germany, France, and the Netherlands? In terms of bilateral economic agreements, for instance, Indians have recently begun sending female caregivers to France and Germany, whereas Sri Lanka remains dumb-deaf.
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schandrad / February 26, 2026
Thanks L. In fact Foreign Minister VH, is off to Germany tonight on an official visit to hold bilateral meetings with his German counterpart and other dignitaries. I’m sure FM will have a ton on his plate to broach with German side and explore opportunities. FM is also due to visit Romania after Germany and will have a gamut of issues for discussion with Romanian side. Regards
/
leelagemalli / February 26, 2026
Schandrad,
.
Germans and Japanese are extremely sensitive to details when dealing with poor countries.
–
This is something I know from having lived in Germany and other nations in the region for a long time. However, nothing appears to be working toward reaching trade or other bilateral agreements between the two countries, despite the fact that India, Brazil, and many other countries are eager to do so.
–
Either Germany’s SL embassy has not done its job properly, or they believe that embassies should not be involved proactively in such things. You may know much more inside information in this area. I personally know some students who received their degrees from German technical colleges and were obligated to return due to an agreement made by Indonesia.
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Lester / February 26, 2026
Schandrad:
“I am utterly disappointed to the point of giving-up writing altogether,.”
Since this is a Wordpress Platform, the moderator can confirm that all the fake ID’s come from “Old Codger.” When you post here, the admin can see your IP address. There is also a timestamp.
There was a lady professor named Deepthi Silva who used to post here. Old Codger harassed her on multiple occasions using abusive language and she left. All of this is recorded in the archives. The moderator should have permanently banned him after that, but did nothing.
There is another poster here named “LankaScott.” He may be in the country, exploiting underage children. If you can notify the authorities, it will be good on your part.
Mental illness is a major problem in Sri Lanka. That is why some posters here display a strong lack of decorum. There is a thread titled “testicles” that these vile creatures filled with their nasty thoughts. Strangely enough, that article was penned by a professor. Again, a poor choice of words on his part.
/