Prime Minister and Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya said that through education reforms and by safeguarding free education, the Government is updating the school curriculum and moving from an examination-centred system towards one that nurtures children's skills, critical thinking, creativity, observation, and practical learning.

The Premier further stated that the Nena Isura Scholarship Programme provides support for the Government's efforts to ensure that no child is left behind. She made these remarks while addressing the "Nena Isura – this year (2026)" Scholarship award ceremony held at the Temple Trees on 2 August. The programme was organised by the Galboda Siri Gnanissara Thera Memorial Scholarship Trust Fund under the guidance of the Chief Incumbent of the Gangaramaya Temple, Ven. Dr Kirinde Assaji Thera. Scholarships were awarded to 460 students who had passed the Grade Five Scholarship Examination, with financial assistance to continue until they complete their General Certificate of Education Advanced Level.

“Our objective is also to build an education system that develops the values, attitudes, and competencies that our country needs. We have allocated resources to improve infrastructure, address teacher shortages, and expand technological facilities in rural schools. For many years, the education system functioned without proper planning, resulting in delays in conducting examinations and releasing examination results. We are now restoring a well-planned academic calendar and ensuring that the education system functions in an orderly and timely manner. By investing in our human capital through initiatives such as the school meal programme, free textbooks, school equipment, and scholarship programmes, the Government remains committed to eliminating the conditions that force children from vulnerable families to discontinue their education”.