A group of academics, professionals and social activists have issued a joint statement supporting the government’s education reforms.

They condemned attacks against Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya by certain opposition groups and individuals.

The signatories stated that the education reforms are based on the National People’s Power (NPP) Education Policy, now adopted as government policy.

They noted that education should focus on equality, inclusion, democratic values, social mobility and preparing citizens for changing social and economic needs.

The group called for equal access to education, elimination of disparities, protection of free education and increased public spending on education to 6% of GDP.

Concerns were raised over the National Institute of Education (NIE), citing issues related to textbooks and administrative lapses.

They urged an independent review of new textbooks, restructuring of the NIE and transparent dialogue with education stakeholders.

The statement was signed by several senior academics, professionals and social activists.