INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
The Sri Lankan government has announced a series of significant investments in the education sector under the 2025 Budget, focusing on
infrastructure development, scholarships, modernization, and improved accessibility for students at all levels.School Infrastructure and
University DevelopmentTo address the longstanding neglect of school infrastructure, the government has allocated Rs
10,000 million for renovations that have been pending since 2019.Additionally, Rs
135,000 million has been earmarked to enhance the quality of the university system, ensuring better facilities and resources for higher
education students.Pre-School and Early Childhood DevelopmentIn a bid to strengthen early childhood education, the budget has increased the
per-meal payment for the pre-school nutrition program from Rs
1,000 million allocated for this initiative.Additionally, Rs
80 million will be used to establish a model early childhood education center.Recognizing the role of pre-school teachers, their monthly
allowance will be increased by Rs
100 million has been set aside.Modernization and Relocation of SchoolsThe government has proposed developing primary schools within a 3 km
launched to review and relocate schools as needed
500 million has been allocated to implement this plan.Expansion of Scholarships and Student SupportA major boost has been given to student
scholarships:Monthly Grade 5 scholarship benefits will increase from Rs
1,000 million allocated.Students in sports schools will see their monthly nutritious food allowance doubled from Rs
10,000.Vocational education students will receive an increased stipend from Rs
5,000 per month, with an additional Rs
200 million allocated.The Mahapola scholarship will rise from Rs
7,500, and bursaries will be increased from Rs
4,600 million budget allocation.A new program will offer top-performing A/L students scholarships to pursue undergraduate degrees at
high-ranking universities abroad, with Rs
500 million in specialized sports schools across five provinces: Western, Northern, Central, Uva, and North Central
The schools will be selected based on the records of past or present students who have excelled in local and international
competitions.Library UpgradesThe Jaffna Library, an essential hub for students and researchers, will receive Rs
100 million for infrastructure upgrades.Additionally, Rs
200 million will be used for the enhancement of regional libraries across the country.
