Call to cooperate with Premjayanth

Ministry Secretary stresses need for equal chances in education

Education Ministry Secretary Ariyaratne Hewage yesterday stressed the need for equal opportunities in education.

"I believe in equal opportunities in education and we all should do our best to achieve this goal," Hewage told a ceremony after assuming duties in his new post.

He urged everyone to extend their fullest cooperation to Minister Susil Premjayanth.

"He is an excellent Minister who is not only educated with an impressive academic background, but also dedicated to deliver the services expected by the people without any delay." the Secretary said.

Hewage sought the fullest cooperation of all to implement the Government's policies on education.

"The key factors in this policy are included in the Mahinda Chinthana, the policy framework of the Government. It is our duty to implement the Government's policies irrespective of our personal views, interests and opinion and I am sure that you would cooperate with me in all endeavours of the Ministry." he said.

"We must ensure that plans are implemented properly. We should exercise supervision through proper methods at all implementation agencies including the schools and universities." Hewage said.

While requesting compliance with Government procedures and systems, Hewage said they should not be considered as barriers.

"We should not get trapped in the procedures and stop our work, but be creative and do something new. We must ensure that we make a change and it should be a change for better. Change should not be ad-hoc and should be institutionalised." he said.

He recalled Prof. J.E. Jayasuriya, Prof. Premadasa Udagama, Prof. Ranjith Ruberu. Prof. Swarna Jayaweera, Prof. Ariyadasa and Silva. who were my teachers who gave me insights in this field."

"I am happy to state that I began my career as a teacher after completing my first degree in Education and therefore" I am so delighted to feel that I have been able to comeback to my home," he added.