The interim findings of an internal investigation into the controversial Grade Six English language module containing a disputed domain name are expected to be submitted to the senior leadership of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education within the next three to five days.
Deputy Minister of Education and Higher Education Madhura Senviratna said strict disciplinary action would be taken against all individuals responsible for the drafting, approval, printing and distribution of the material, irrespective of their position or seniority.
He said the Fact-Finding Committee, appointed in consultation with the supreme governing body of the National Institute of Education (NIE), is in the final stages of preparing the interim report for submission to the Ministry.
Separately, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is conducting a probe to determine whether legal action can be pursued under the Penal Code against those responsible.
NIE Director General Prof. Manjula Vidanapathirana has tendered her resignation to facilitate investigations following the controversy, which raised concerns that Grade Six students may have been exposed to online content linked to indecent sexual material or sexual orientation.
Senviratna said the Ministry would suspend, transfer or terminate the services of NIE officials found to have violated the Establishment Code, which governs disciplinary procedures in the public service.
Police said the CID has recorded statements from at least six NIE officials, including module writers and senior officers involved in reviewing, editing and proofreading the learning materials, as part of the ongoing criminal investigation.
