MoE seeks Unions' input to solicit parents' funds

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has decided to obtain views of Educational sector trade unions in its plans to collect funds from parents to maintain schools.

This is after a decision to suspend 2 related Circulars strongly opposed by the trade unions.

Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam this week met with trade union representatives to discuss the issue.

The Minister told the representatives that, though, in principle, he was opposed to collecting money from parents, there were other donations coming in from past pupil organisations, which could be collected in a transparent manner.

The Minister called on the unions to submit proposals to ensure that the money is collected in a transparent manner.

A second round of discussions is due to take place on the subject.

Earlier, the MoE had issued two Circulars regarding collection of funds, but decided to withhold one recently. However, Unions opposed the move, saying it would give effect to the 1st Circular, where schools could go ahead and collect funds.

Ceylon Teachers Services Union President Mahinda Jayasinghe said their opinion was to draft a completely new Circular on collection of funds, with limits on collecting such funds. He said the MoE should cancel the previous Circulars, instead of temporarily suspending them.

The Minister called on the unions to submit proposals to ensure that the money is collected in a transparent manner.