Results sans District/ National rankings removes peer pressure- AVK

As District rankings or National rankings of the Grade 5 Scholarship exam results were not released this time, students did not compare marks, or disparage other students, said Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam.

“A Question paper is not a determining factor of one’s performances, hence I avoided ranking students.”

"Grade 5 students are subject to peer pressure, in the run up to the exam and, as a result, in their goal to pass the exam, they lose their precious childhood," he added.

He said giving students proper recognition for their exam performances is our utmost duty as parents, but because of the competition, they force their children to get higher grades and rankings. "My intention was to change this situation and I have achieved it, as a majority of parents, principals and teachers thanked me in this regard."

“Earlier, Arts stream students had the option of obtaining a pass in Maths, while following A/L classes, which they need not have at present. That’s because there should be a system that allows children to march forward with their skills and abilities,” he said.

According to the Minister, arrangements have been made to increase the number of students who will receive ' Shishyadhara' scholarships. Accordingly, students receiving Special Education will be given Rs 250 and the monthly ‘ Shishyadhara’ payment to increase from Rs 500 to Rs 750, with necessary steps taken to pay them through an online banking system. (JM)