Introduction
The Sri Lankan education system plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s workforce and economy. As the country strives for sustained growth and development, it is imperative to examine the connection between the education system and the ever-evolving job market. This article delves into the strengths and challenges of Sri Lanka’s education system, exploring its impact on employability, skill development, and the workforce’s ability to meet the demands of the modern job market.
The evolution of the Sri Lankan education system has been a dynamic process, influenced by various historical, social, and political factors. From its ancient roots to the modern-day system, the education landscape has undergone significant changes.
Free education in Sri Lanka is a significant policy initiative that has had a profound impact on the country’s education system and society as a whole. The implementation of free education has made education accessible to a wider segment of the population, contributing to higher literacy rates and educational attainment.
The Free Education Policy in Sri Lanka was introduced in 1945 by C.W.W. Kannangara, the Minister of Education at the time.
The evolution of the Sri Lankan education system
Education in ancient Sri Lanka primarily revolved around religious learning and was centered in monastic institutions known as “Pirivenas.” These institutions were closely associated with Buddhist monasteries and provided education to aspiring Buddhist monks and members of the nobility. The curriculum focused on subjects like philosophy, literature, and Buddhist teachings.
During the medieval period, education expanded beyond religious centers. Non-religious educational institutions called “Pirivana” were established to cater to the general population. These centers offered a broader curriculum that included traditional subjects, arts, and crafts. Education was still limited to the privileged few, primarily the aristocracy and higher echelons of society.
The arrival of European colonists, namely the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, brought significant changes to the education system. The Portuguese and Dutch had limited interest in providing education, focusing mainly on spreading Christianity among the local population. However, it was the British who played a dominant role in shaping the modern education system.
The British colonial administration introduced a formal education system modeled after the British system. English became the medium of instruction, and the education system was organized into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Missionary schools were established by Christian missionary societies, and they played a vital role in education, especially in the English education of the local population.
The British government implemented the recommendations of the Colebrooke-Cameron Commission to reform the education system. This led to the establishment of government schools with a standardized curriculum and introduced examinations to ensure quality and consistency.
In the 20th century, there was a significant expansion of the education system to increase access to education for a broader segment of the population. The Free Education Policy, introduced in 1945, made education up to the secondary level free for all citizens. This policy greatly contributed to the increase in literacy rates and educational attainment in the country.
After gaining independence in 1948, Sri Lanka focused on further developing its education system. The government played a more prominent role in expanding educational opportunities and investing in infrastructure and teacher training. The establishment of numerous government schools and the decentralization of education administration were key developments during this period.
The University of Ceylon, established in 1942, became the country’s first university and later expanded into several campuses. Today, Sri Lanka has a well-developed university system with many public and private universities and other higher education institutions.
Current education system in Sri Lanka
Primary Education
Primary education in Sri Lanka covers Grades 1 to 5 and is compulsory for all children.
The primary curriculum includes subjects such as Sinhala/Tamil (depending on the medium of instruction), Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Buddhism/Hinduism/Islam (depending on the student’s religion), and co-curricular activities to promote holistic development.
Secondary Education
Secondary education in Sri Lanka is divided into two stages: Junior Secondary (Grades 6 to 9) and Senior Secondary (Grades 10 to 13).
At the junior secondary level, students study a broader range of subjects, including Sinhala/Tamil, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, English, Buddhism/Hinduism/Islam, and a second language (usually English).
At the senior secondary level (Grades 10 and 11), students continue to study core subjects, but they also have the option to choose subjects according to their interests and career aspirations. This stage prepares students for the General Certificate of Education (Ordinary Level) examination (GCE O/L).
Advanced Level (A/L) Education
The A/L education is a two-year program (Grades 12 and 13) that prepares students for the General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level) examination (GCE A/L).
Students can choose from three main streams: Arts, Commerce, and Science. Within each stream, there are subject combinations tailored to specific career paths and university admissions.
A/L results are crucial for university admissions and further education opportunities.
Positive aspects of Sri Lankan education system
The Sri Lankan education system has several positive aspects that contribute to its effectiveness and the overall development of students. One of the notable strengths is its high literacy rate, which reflects the success of the education system in promoting basic education and literacy skills among its population. This is largely attributed to the implementation of the Free Education Policy since 1945, making education accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds. The policy has significantly increased enrollment rates and reduced disparities in educational access.
Moreover, Sri Lanka has a well-established higher education system with several public and private universities offering diverse undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The quality of higher education in the country is generally perceived to be good, attracting students not only from Sri Lanka but also from other countries in the region. Additionally, the education system places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, particularly at the GCE Ordinary Level (O/L) and GCE Advanced Level (A/L) examinations. This emphasis on academic performance motivates students to strive for higher achievements and prepares them for higher education and future careers.
Another positive aspect of the Sri Lankan education system is the trilingual education it offers. Students have the option to learn in Sinhala, Tamil, or English, encouraging language proficiency and facilitating communication in the multicultural and multilingual society. Additionally, the education system has recognized the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to address the skills gap and prepare students for various career paths. TVET programs equip students with practical skills and enhance their employability.
The education system also emphasizes the importance of cultural, ethical, and moral values, fostering responsible citizenship and the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage. Teacher training programs have been prioritized to ensure that educators are well-equipped to deliver quality education to students, positively impacting the learning experience and outcomes.
Furthermore, the encouragement of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the education sector has led to the establishment of private educational institutions, providing diverse educational opportunities and complementing the public education system. The stability and continuity of the education system, with a structured curriculum and established examination systems, provide predictability for students and educators.
Exam-based education System in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s education system places a significant emphasis on examinations, and this approach has historical roots and is influenced by several factors. One primary reason for the exam-based system is to facilitate merit-based university admissions. The General Certificate of Education (Advanced Level) examination (GCE A/L) holds immense importance as it determines a student’s eligibility for admission to universities. With limited university capacity and high demand for higher education, the exam-based selection process ensures fairness and transparency in university admissions.
Moreover, the competitive job market in Sri Lanka further reinforces the significance of academic qualifications, especially at the A/L level. Employers often consider examination results as a crucial criterion for selecting candidates, motivating students to perform well in their studies to secure better job opportunities.
Standardization of education is another objective achieved through examinations. By providing a common assessment method, exams enable the evaluation of students’ academic performance in a uniform manner and help maintain consistent educational standards throughout the country.
The culture of Sri Lankan society also contributes to the prominence of exams. Parents and society, in general, place a high value on education, resulting in high expectations for academic achievements. The exam-based system aligns with these expectations, creating a strong focus on academic excellence among students.
Additionally, examinations are viewed as a preparation ground for future challenges, such as higher education and the professional world. Regular assessments through exams foster the development of critical thinking, time management, and problem-solving skills.
Furthermore, the exam-based system provides students with recognized credentials that can be valuable for further education and employment opportunities, both within Sri Lanka and internationally.
On the other side exam-based education system in Sri Lanka has faced several criticisms from educators, students, and experts. One prominent concern is the prevalence of rote learning, where students memorize information without truly understanding the underlying concepts. This approach hinders critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creativity, as students focus primarily on memorizing content for exams. Moreover, the heavy emphasis on exam preparation creates a high-pressure environment, leading to stress and anxiety among students. This intense focus on exams often leaves little room for students to explore their interests, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop holistic skills essential for their overall growth.
Another criticism centers around the narrow assessment of skills. Examinations primarily evaluate academic knowledge in specific subject areas, overlooking other vital skills like practical application, communication, and soft skills. Consequently, students may not be adequately prepared to handle real-life challenges and may face difficulties in transitioning to the job market, where a broader skill set is required.
The exam-centric system can exacerbate inequalities in education. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds may have limited access to resources and educational support, making it challenging for them to compete on an equal footing in the exam-based evaluation. Additionally, the standardized nature of exams may not cater to individual learning styles, hindering the development of creativity and unique perspectives among students.
Furthermore, critics argue that the emphasis on final exam results overshadows the continuous learning process. The pursuit of high grades can sometimes overshadow the value of learning for learning’s sake and diminish the intrinsic motivation to explore subjects deeply.
Number of unemployed and unemployment rate by level of education, first quarter – 2022
Source: Department of census and statistic
Sri Lanka Labour Force Statistics, Quarterly Bulletin, First Quarter 2022
Why does Sri Lanka produce unemployed graduates?
Sri Lanka’s high unemployment rate among graduates can be attributed to a combination of factors. One significant challenge is the existence of a skills mismatch between the qualifications of graduates and the demands of the job market. The education system may not always equip students with the practical skills and experiences required to meet the specific needs of available job opportunities, leading to difficulties in finding suitable employment.
Another contributing factor is the limited number of job opportunities available in the labor market. Despite the growing number of graduates each year, the demand for skilled jobs may not keep pace with the increasing supply of qualified individuals. This oversupply of graduates competing for a limited number of suitable positions leads to a higher rate of unemployment among the educated workforce. Additionally, Economic factors can influence the overall employment scenario and affect the availability of opportunities for fresh graduates.
Moreover, the education system’s overemphasis on securing white-collar jobs and the pursuit of academic qualifications can lead to a lack of interest in other vital sectors of the economy that require different skill sets. This preference for specific types of jobs may result in fewer graduates exploring diverse career paths, leading to a concentration of job seekers in certain industries.
Geographical disparities can also play a role, with employment opportunities often concentrated in urban areas. Graduates from rural or less-developed regions may face additional challenges in accessing suitable job opportunities, leading to higher unemployment rates in these areas.
Furthermore, the lack of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving, among some graduates can hinder their employability. Employers increasingly value these soft skills alongside academic qualifications.
Sri Lanka Unemployment rate from 2003 to 2023
Source: Statista 2023
Bridging the gap
In 2022, the unemployment rate in Sri Lanka increased by 1.5 percentage points since 2021. In total, the unemployment rate amounted to 6.7 percent in 2022. Over the observed period, the unemployment rate has been subject to fluctuation.
Bridging the gap between Sri Lanka’s education system and the job market requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort from various stakeholders. One essential step is to align the education system to be more demand-driven, focusing on developing practical skills and competencies that are relevant to the needs of industries. This can be achieved by fostering closer collaboration between educational institutions and employers, allowing for regular input from the job market in curriculum development.
Promoting vocational and technical education is another crucial aspect. By offering specialized training and certifications in various industries, students can acquire skills that directly match the demands of the job market. Encouraging internships, apprenticeships, and practical training programs can also provide students with real-world experiences and help them transition seamlessly into the workforce.
Enhancing career guidance and counseling services within educational institutions is vital. By assisting students in exploring diverse career options and understanding the job market’s realities, they can make informed choices about their academic and career paths. This can reduce the skills mismatch and ensure that students are better prepared for the job market.
Fostering entrepreneurship and an innovative mindset is equally important. Encouraging students to think creatively, develop problem-solving abilities, and pursue entrepreneurial ventures can lead to job creation and contribute to economic growth.
Furthermore, building stronger connections between educational institutions and industries can help address the skills gap. Creating platforms for regular interactions, such as job fairs, industry visits, and networking events, can facilitate the exchange of information between employers and potential employees.
Lastly, continuous research and analysis of the job market’s evolving needs can guide the education system’s adaptability. Regularly updating curricula and introducing new programs that reflect emerging industries and technological advancements can ensure that graduates possess the skills required to meet the ever-changing job market demands.
Accordingly bridging the gap between Sri Lanka’s education system and the job market requires a proactive and collaborative approach, involving educational institutions, policymakers, employers, and students. By working together to align education with industry needs, promoting practical skills development, and fostering entrepreneurship, Sri Lanka can enhance graduate employability and contribute to the country’s overall economic development.
Advancing Sri Lanka’s Education System
To enhance the Sri Lankan education system, several key areas could be addressed. Firstly, there should be an emphasis on investing in teacher training and professional development. By providing teachers with ongoing support and resources, they can better adapt to modern teaching methods and technologies, leading to more effective classroom instruction.
Secondly, promoting a well-rounded and balanced curriculum is essential. This involves incorporating not only academic subjects but also life skills, critical thinking, and creativity into the education framework. Encouraging extracurricular activities, such as sports, arts, and community engagement, can foster holistic development and cultivate well-rounded individuals.
Furthermore, improving access to education is crucial. Ensuring equitable distribution of educational resources, particularly in rural and disadvantaged areas, will help reduce educational disparities. Investment in infrastructure, including schools and educational facilities, is essential to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
Additionally, harnessing technology in education can greatly benefit Sri Lanka’s education system. Integrating digital learning tools and online resources can enhance student engagement and expand educational opportunities beyond traditional classroom boundaries.
Lastly, fostering a culture of research and innovation in education will lead to continuous improvement. Encouraging educational research and implementing evidence-based practices can drive advancements in teaching methodologies and policies.
Enhancing the Sri Lankan education system involves investing in teacher development, promoting a well-rounded curriculum, improving access to education, harnessing technology, and fostering a culture of research and innovation. By addressing these areas, Sri Lanka can create a more inclusive, effective, and future-ready education system that empowers its citizens and supports the nation’s growth and development.
Ayomi Indunil Hapuarachchi
(Ayomi Indunil Hapuarachchi is a highly accomplished professional with a passion for the banking and finance industry. She graduated from the prestigious University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, earning a Bachelor of Business Management Special Degree in Human Resources with second-class Honors. Her dedication to continuous learning is evident through her attainment of a Master of Science in Business Economics Degree from the esteemed University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka.
With an impressive background in banking, Ayomi holds the distinguished status of an Associate Member of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka. Her commitment to professional excellence and growth is further exemplified by her completion of the Diploma in Applied Banking and Finance from the Institute of Bankers Sri Lanka.
Ayomi’s journey in the banking sector began in November 2017 when she joined the Regional Development Bank as a Management Trainee. Over the course of more than five years, she has honed her skills and expertise, contributing significantly to the growth and success of the organization. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Manager at RDB.)
References
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Groundviews. (2021). Sri Lanka’s Education System Needs an Overhaul. Retrieved from https://groundviews.org/2021/01/24/sri-lankas-education-system-needs-an-overhaul/
