Page 18 - QUALITY Magazine (Volume 03 - Issue I)

that education evolves without sacrificing the
08 What are your thoughts on the role of essence of Sri Lanka’s rich traditions.
public-private partnerships in driving
innovation and quality improvements in
education? Finally, what is your overall vision for the
10
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are essential future of education in Sri Lanka, and what
in fostering innovation and improving the quality steps do you believe are most crucial to
of education. In many developed countries, achieve it?
these collaborations have proven to be highly My vision for Sri Lanka’s education system is to
effective. By combining the strengths of the private cultivate a dynamic, inclusive, and future-ready
sector such as technological expertise, financial workforce equipped with technical knowledge and
resources, and industry knowledge with the public essential soft skills, including teamwork, ethics,
education system, PPPs can significantly enhance and adaptability to evolving industry trends. As I
infrastructure and introduce advanced learning explained earlier, achieving this requires several
tools. Moreover, PPPs bring innovative teaching crucial steps. First, we must modernize curricula to
methods into classrooms, making education more meet the evolving needs of industries and integrate
dynamic and engaging. These partnerships also practical, hands-on experiences such as internships
address the evolving demands of the job market and group work. Expanding access to quality
by aligning curricula with industry needs, ensuring education in rural areas and investing in teacher
that students are equipped with relevant skills. training will ensure that every student receives the
This connection not only improves educational education they deserve. Additionally, promoting
outcomes but also opens more career opportunities vocational training and digital education platforms is
for graduates, creating a stronger link between key to bridging the skills gap. Collaboration with the
education and employment. Ultimately, PPPs drive a private sector and international organizations will
more responsive and forward-thinking educational also be essential in creating a globally competitive
system. education system. By embracing innovation,
updating outdated practices, and focusing on real-
world relevance, we can ensure that our education
09 How can Sri Lanka balance the need for system is prepared to meet future challenges and
preserving traditional educational values
with the push for modernization and global opportunities.
competitiveness?

Sri Lanka can strike a balance between preserving
traditional educational values and embracing
modernization by integrating contemporary
practices into the existing system without losing
sight of its cultural roots. This can be achieved by
designing a curriculum that incorporates global
competencies like digital literacy, critical thinking,
and innovation, while also emphasizing the
importance of local traditions, ethical values, and
cultural heritage. Teachers play a pivotal role in this
transition, needing to be well-equipped to guide
students in navigating both worlds. By fostering
an environment where modern skills complement
Sri Lankan values, students can become globally
competitive yet remain firmly connected to their
cultural identity. This balanced approach ensures