Exam schedules overhauled for faster university enrollment

Minister of Education, Susil Premajayantha, has announced a significant overhaul of the G.C.E. Ordinary Level (O/L) and Advanced Level (A/L) examinations to facilitate quicker university enrollment for students.

The new initiative aims to allow students to complete their schooling by age 18 and transition seamlessly into higher education. Speaking at a ceremony honoring the top achievers of the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination, Minister Premajayantha outlined these reforms, which are designed to eliminate delays in the academic timeline.

One major change is that A/L studies will now commence before the release of O/L results, addressing the 4-5 month gap traditionally experienced between these examination stages. Starting this year, the A/L examination, typically held in November, will be moved to September by 2025, further reducing the waiting period for university admissions.

Minister Premajayantha also emphasized the government's commitment to improving the infrastructure and resources necessary for these reforms in both schools and universities. The changes aim not only to accelerate the educational process but also to create environments conducive to innovation and adaptability in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Further, the Minister highlighted the importance of equipping students with knowledge and experience in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence. He called for the development of a legal framework to govern the use of such technologies within the educational system, stressing the importance of preparing students for a future that requires both a solid educational foundation and an understanding of the legal and ethical implications of new technologies.