Several investigations conducted in the past under the Northern Provincial Ministry of Education have not yet been concluded. Allegations have arisen that investigations against those considered undesirable are being expedited, while those against favored individuals are being delayed or ignored.
The Honorable Governor of the Northern Province, Mr. N. Vethanayagan, has instructed that all investigations be completed within six months.
A monthly review meeting on the financial and physical progress of projects being implemented this year under the Northern Provincial Ministry of Education, Cultural Affairs, Sports, and Youth Affairs was held today (Tuesday, 11.11.2025) at the Governor’s Secretariat, chaired by Governor N. Vethanayagan.
The progress of projects implemented by the Departments of Education, Sports, and Cultural Affairs was discussed. Projects carried out under the Department of Education using various funding sources were reviewed zone by zone.
The meeting also addressed he negligent work practices of some contractors. It was discussed that contractors’ performances should be evaluated and made public, with recommendations proposed for future actions against underperforming contractors.
Further discussions were held on delays in payments caused by contractors failing to submit invoices even after project completion.
After departmental reviews, the meeting also discussed the removal of certain regions in the Northern Province from the “Difficult” or “Most Difficult” area classifications. The Governor instructed officials to submit justifiable requests for these classifications to be reinstated.
Additionally, the Governor directed that teachers and principals serving in the islands across the sea be promptly granted the risk allowance in accordance with the circular issued by the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs.
The Governor noted that continuous complaints have been received regarding schools collecting money from students under various pretexts. He instructed zonal education directors to take action against such principals.
He also pointed out that some teachers, after assigning classwork to students, spend time watching videos on their mobile phones, based on complaints received.
To prevent such misconduct, the Governor requested zonal education directors and their subordinates to carry out sudden inspection visits.
The meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province, the Governor’s Secretary, the Secretary of the Ministry of Education, the Deputy Chief Secretary (Finance, Planning, and Engineering), directors of Education, Sports, and Cultural Affairs Departments, the Provincial Buildings Department Director, Zonal Education Directors, and the District Coordinating Committee Chairpersons’ representatives from Jaffna and Kilinochchi.
