MOU on India-funded Smart Classrooms to be Amended
Table of Contents
- Background of the MOU
- Changes to the Smart Classroom Project
- Discussion and Decisions
- Future Implementation
Background of the MOU
Cabinet approval has been granted to amend the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Indian Government on constructing 60 smart classrooms at selected schools in the estate areas of Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Badulla Districts in Sri Lanka.
In December 2023, the Sri Lankan Government agreed with the Indian Government to implement a smart classroom project for Advanced Level classes at selected estate schools in Sri Lanka. This initiative is supported by both Indian financial aid and contributions from the Sri Lankan Government.
Changes to the Smart Classroom Project
Due to practical challenges in targeting only Advanced Level students, a discussion involving officials from the Indian High Commission, Ministry of Education, Department of Foreign Resources, and National Budget Department led to a decision to broaden the project's scope in Sri Lanka.
The amended MOU will no longer limit the smart classroom project to Advanced Level students, allowing a more inclusive approach to benefit a wider range of students in the targeted districts of Sri Lanka.
Discussion and Decisions
In a detailed discussion, it was concluded that the initial criteria of focusing solely on Advanced Level classes posed significant implementation issues. As a result, the criteria have been revised to ensure the project's success and inclusivity in Sri Lanka.
The Cabinet took into consideration the recommendations from the Minister of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development and approved the necessary amendments to the MOU.
Future Implementation
With the revised MOU, the smart classroom project in Sri Lanka is expected to proceed more smoothly, addressing the educational needs of a broader student population in Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Badulla Districts.
This initiative underscores the continued collaboration between Sri Lanka and India, aiming to enhance educational infrastructure and opportunities for students in estate areas of Sri Lanka.
By expanding the scope of the project, both governments demonstrate their commitment to improving educational outcomes and providing advanced learning environments to more students in Sri Lanka.
