- World Bank approved $50 million in additional funding to support education reforms in Sri Lanka under the General Education Modernization Project.
- The project will benefit 500,000 students and 150,000 teachers, focusing on underserved communities, digital learning, and teacher development.
- Funds will also enhance school health and well-being, including sanitation, menstrual hygiene, and mental health support.
In a significant move to uplift the quality and inclusivity of education in Sri Lanka, the World Bank has approved an additional $50 million financing package under its ongoing General Education Modernization Project (GEMP). This funding is expected to directly benefit an estimated 500,000 students and 150,000 teachers across the country, with a strong focus on underserved communities.
The newly approved financing aims to keep Sri Lanka's critical education reforms on track, improve teacher effectiveness, upgrade school infrastructure, and enhance overall student well-being. The support will be extended to schools across all nine provinces, covering a wide range of grade levels, with special attention to rural and plantation communities and institutions supporting children with special needs.
"This support is about making sure every child in Sri Lanka has the chance to learn in a safe, inclusive environment and that every teacher has the tools they need to help their students thrive", said David Sislen, World Bank Divisional Director for the Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. "We are excited to be working with Sri Lanka to help students and teachers reach their full potential".
The package is part of the World Bank’s broader commitment to educational equity and modernization in Sri Lanka. The funds will be used to improve the quality of teaching through enhanced pre-service teacher education and professional development programs. A key area of focus will be integrating digital learning tools and methodologies into the teaching process to better prepare both students and educators for a rapidly changing world.
Another crucial component of the project is improving school health and well-being. The financing will support the expansion of Sri Lanka's School Health and Nutrition Program, ensuring better access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools. The program will also address critical issues such as menstrual hygiene, reproductive health education, and mental health support for students.
"The additional funds will be utilized to benefit children in rural and estate areas, with special emphasis on female students", said Harsha Aturupane, World Bank Lead Economist and Task Team Leader. "We believe targeted investment in these areas will yield long-term benefits for the entire education system".
Implemented in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education and Provincial Authorities of Education, the project underscores the importance of decentralized efforts in ensuring educational development reaches every corner of the country.
This fresh wave of financing not only supports immediate education needs but also builds a foundation for long-term transformation. By focusing on teacher quality, infrastructure, health, and inclusion, the initiative is set to create a more equitable, future-ready education system in Sri Lanka.
With this renewed partnership, the World Bank and Sri Lanka aim to ensure that every student, regardless of background, can access quality education in a supportive environment paving the way for a brighter future.
