The Department of Examinations is a trusted partner in building a future-ready education system based on social justice, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said at the department’s 75th anniversary ceremony.
Dr. Amarasuriya, who is also Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, made the remarks at the ‘Vajra Prabha’ ceremony held at the department’s premises on 1 October, the Daily Mirror reported.
What was said
The Prime Minister said the public has placed considerable trust in the department as an institution that helps determine the future of children, and that it contributes to fairness and justice in society by letting people advance on the basis of their abilities and dedication.
She commended officials for conducting the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination without disruption, particularly through severe disasters in recent years, and praised their willingness to go beyond regular duties. The department’s culture of working to a common objective during critical situations was commendable, she said.
The institution
Established in 1951, the Department of Examinations is Sri Lanka’s principal national assessment body. It conducts the Grade 5 Scholarship Examination, the G.C.E. Ordinary Level and Advanced Level examinations and a range of competitive examinations, evaluating hundreds of thousands of candidates each year.
At the ceremony
A commemorative stamp and an anniversary magazine marking 75 years were launched at the event. Commemorative gifts were presented to retired Commissioners General of Examinations.
The report did not indicate any new policy decision on examination reform accompanying the anniversary.
