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Plans to reduce number of optional, compulsory O/L subjects

by Manjula Fernando

The Schools Unit of the Education Ministry is contemplating a reduction of the number of optional and compulsory subjects offered at the GCE Ordinary Level in order to lessen the heavy burden on students.

Education, Human Resources and Cultural Affairs Minister Karunasena Kodituwakku said the Ministry hoped to call for the views of parents, teachers, education officers as well as students before any measures were taken to reduce the number of subjects.

"This is not going to be a hasty political decision. A lot of children have deviated from extra-curricular activities in schools due to the heavy work load in the curriculum. In fact, teachers have to virtually force students to take part in sports and other non-academic activities although they play a key role in moulding one's personality and character," the Minister explained.

He said they were still exploring the possibility of reducing the number of subjects. However, no change will be done immediately. The public will be invited to send in suggestions.

"We don't think that students must learn less in school. But our stand is that there should be a balance in academic and other character building activities in school so that every student has time to take part in them without missing studies."

However, the number of compulsory subjects is not likely to be reduced. 

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