The Minister of Education Akila Viraj Kariyawasam has instructed that immediate steps be taken to stop the collection of money from parents for activities at schools. Considering the complaints received from parents on the practice, the minister took this decision at the staff officers progress review meeting held recently.
The Minister had emphasised that all officials must abide by the provisions of the circular issued by the Ministry of Education regarding the collection of money at schools.
He had stressed that such actions should not take place when steps are being taken to expand free education. Steps have also been taken to appoint an officer to receive complaints from parents on collection of money. Written complaints can also be lodged with the Ministry of Education.