By Sandun A. Jayasekera The Grade 5 scholarship examination is not mandatory henceforth as it has become a burden to schoolchildren, parents and the free education system, Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said yesterday.
He said the scholarship examination was meant to grant an opportunity to students in rural hamlets who excel in their education and also to those in low-income families with an excellent track record to enter a so-called popular school to further their education.
"It is sad to note that the Grade 5 scholarship examination has become aloof to its main objectives and exerted unbearable pressure on students. It has also turned out to be a huge competition between parents and students. Psychiatrists and educationists have found that the competition is such that it dose not help to hone inherent skills of students but create a competitive edge among them. This is not good for students at their tender age," he said.
He said under the prevailing situation, the Grade 5 scholarship examination would be made compulsory only for students in low-income families. As such, all Grade 5 students are not required to face the examination. However, students will be given an option whether to sit the exam after consulting parents. The zonal directors are required to find a school for students who have to leave after Grade 5.
The circular 08/19 issued by the Education Ministry in this regard has also instructed not to display banners, cutouts or posters that promote competition in Grade 5 examination. Furthermore, the circular has fully banned cash collections from Grade 4 students when they apply to enter school.
These decisions have been taken by the Scholarship Review Committee attached to the Education Ministry. The committee has been appointed by the subject minister.
It is sad to note that the Grade 5 scholarship examination has become aloof to its main objectives and exerted unbearable pressure on students