A tense situation erupted this afternoon in front of the Ministry of Education in Pelawatte as approximately 500 members of the Joint School Development Officers' Association staged a protest. The demonstrators were demanding their recruitment into the teaching service, claiming they have been teaching in schools for the past four years without permanent positions.
Key Developments
- Protest Details:
- The protest caused a complete traffic block on the Kottawa-Borella Road (Route 174) in front of the Ministry of Education.
- Protesters demanded recognition and absorption into the teaching service, citing years of service in schools.
- Police Response:
- Police attempted to disperse the protesters, resulting in a confrontation.
- Four protesters were arrested, and a total of 10 individuals were injured, including two police officers.
- Tense Situation:
- The clash between the protesters and police led to heightened tensions in the area, affecting normal traffic flow and public safety.
Unfulfilled Assurance from Previous Government
The protesters also highlighted an assurance given by the previous government led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, during which it was announced in parliament on November 3, 2024, by Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha that School Development Officers would be recruited into the teaching service.
- Planned Recruitment as Teacher Trainees:
- The assurance included recruiting these officers as teacher trainees based on their five years of experience in schools.
- Postgraduate Training Commitment:
- As part of the plan, the officers were to undergo additional professional development through a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) program to formalize their integration into the teaching profession.
Background of the Protest
The Joint School Development Officers' Association organized this demonstration to demand the implementation of the recruitment plan promised by the previous government. Despite years of service in schools, these officers remain in precarious employment conditions without formal recognition or permanency.
Current Status
While the police have dispersed the protest, today’s events underscore the urgency of addressing the School Development Officers' grievances. Further updates on the arrests and the conditions of the injured are awaited.
Impact and Way Forward
The unfulfilled promises from the previous government have become a focal point of frustration for the School Development Officers. The current administration will need to engage with these officers, honor past commitments, and implement a clear timeline for recruitment and training to resolve the ongoing conflict and ensure stability within the education sector.
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