• Edu. Min. notes that single uniform response would not suffice, says options include Suraksha insurance scheme for orphans, school hostels for temp. accommodation 
• PM focuses on renovation, restoration and relocation, and preschool teachers’ allowances

The Education Ministry stated that measures to ensure the education of children who were affected by cyclone Ditwah is not disrupted would have to be handled on a case-by-case basis, rather than through a single, uniform response.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, the Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa said that financial support could be extended through existing mechanisms such as the Suraksha insurance scheme, which provides coverage for schoolchildren. He said this form of assistance could help ease financial difficulties faced by children who lost their parents.

However, he noted the Ministry could not commit to one specific course of action to ensure their education is not disrupted. “The response will depend on the circumstances. For example, if a child is left without a place to live, temporary accommodation can be arranged at a school hostel until a more permanent solution is found. The other relevant authorities will also take further action as required to ensure continuity in schooling," he added.

Last month disasters caused by Ditwah disrupted lives across several parts of the country, leaving many families displaced and causing the loss of life and livelihoods. Children were also affected, with some losing one or both parents, homes, school supplies, and stable support systems.

The Ministry has also launched a comprehensive study to assess the impact of Ditwah on the education sector, identify gaps, and determine future needs. The study is being carried out with the support of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), which is leading the process alongside other stakeholders. The Ministry has requested an initial report before 5 January of next year (2026).

Meanwhile, Prime Minister and Education Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated  the Ministry, together with UNICEF, will take necessary steps to renovate schools that can be restored quickly and to relocate schools located in high-risk areas to safer locations, following an assessment of the schools affected by cyclone Ditwah.

The Premier made these remarks after inspecting the Meegahakiula National School in the Badulla District that was damaged by the cyclone, on Wednesday (24). She also inspected the preschool that had been operating at the Ketawatta Yodha Ulpatha Community Hall, which was completely damaged after a tree fell on it due to strong winds. She instructed officials to take steps to restart the preschool at a safe location. The Passara Yuri Tamil Primary School also sustained severe damages due to a landslide.

Drawing attention to the proper payment of allowances provided to preschool teachers, she emphasised the authorities should identify preschools that can no longer operate due to damages caused by the disaster and ensure that allowances are paid to teachers of those preschools as well.