Education is not merely about passing exams – Prime Minister

Education is not merely about passing exams, but about shaping good citizens who can make the world a better place, said Prime Minister Harinie Amarasuriya.

She made these remarks at the inaugural session of the Student Parliament of Mahamaya Girls’ College, Kandy, held recently (28) at the Old Parliament Chamber of the Presidential Secretariat, under the patronage of the Prime Minister and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rizvie Saliy.

The event was organized jointly by the Department of Communications of Parliament, the Presidential Secretariat, and the Ministry of Education as part of the ongoing Student Parliament initiative — a platform designed to encourage civic understanding and leadership among school students across the country.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Harinie Amarasuriya emphasized that the education system is being gradually transformed to produce responsible, empathetic citizens rather than burdened students. “Our goal,” she said, “is to nurture individuals who can contribute meaningfully toward making the world a better place.”

Students were also given the rare opportunity to directly raise questions with the Prime Minister.

Deputy Speaker Rizvie Saliy, in his address, reminded students that no one can be a true lawmaker without being a law-abiding citizen. He urged all to commit themselves to building a just and disciplined society. Reflecting on the venue’s rich history, he added that conducting the session within the old Parliament Chamber was an extraordinary and honorable experience for the young participants.

Acting Secretary-General of Parliament Chaminda Kulatunga enlightened the student parliamentarians on the history of female representation in the Sri Lankan Parliament and its legislative functions.

Meanwhile, Professor A. Sarveswaran, Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, delivered a special lecture on law, inspiring the students to view justice and integrity as essential pillars of democracy.

Dharmasiri Gamage, Director General of Public Relations at the Presidential Secretariat, and Subhash Roshan Gamage, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, also addressed the students, briefing them on the Clean Sri Lanka initiative and how communities can access Presidential Fund benefits at the local level.

The session began with the election and swearing-in of the Speaker and student Members of Parliament, followed by speeches from the Student Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers, after which the Student Parliament was adjourned. Certificates of participation were also awarded to the student members.

The ceremony was attended by Major Nadika Dangolla, Assistant Director of the Presidential Secretariat; Shashikala Senadheera, Principal of Mahamaya Girls’ College; members of the academic staff; parents; and other distinguished guests — marking a truly inspiring day where education met leadership in one of Sri Lanka’s most historic chambers.