Education trade unions have stepped up their opposition to the government’s proposed education reforms, particularly the plan to extend school hours in government schools until 2:00 PM.
Speaking to the media, Venerable Ulapane Sumangala Thero, President of the Education Professionals Association, announced that a nationwide strike will be held on December 12 with the participation of several trade unions demanding the withdrawal of the new reforms.
The association claims the government intends to move ahead with the extended school hours despite objections raised by unions, including those typically aligned with the administration. It further noted that official circulars outlining the changes have already been issued.
Venerable Sumangala Thero warned that if the government does not reverse the proposed reforms, education trade unions are prepared to launch an indefinite, islandwide strike after December 12.
The Education Professionals Association stressed that the reforms, including the extended school timetable, must be reconsidered, adding that the government’s failure to address stakeholder concerns could result in significant disruptions to the education sector.
