38 schools closed due to heavy rains

Due to the adverse weather conditions affecting the island, education authorities have taken steps to close 38 schools in several areas today (21st). The Ministry of Education states that considering the prevailing rainfall and disaster situations, the full authority to decide whether or not to hold classes in the relevant schools has been vested in the regional education authorities.

According to reports received by 9.00 AM today, the highest number of schools have been closed in the Central Province. Accordingly, 35 schools located in the Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts have been closed, and one school each has been closed in the Sabaragamuwa, Southern, and Western provinces.

The Governor of the Central Province stated that these decisions were made by the Zonal Education Directors and principals in consultation, according to prior guidelines. If any problematic situation arises, instructions have been given to make decisions by contacting officials including the Secretary to the Ministry of Education, the Provincial Director of Education, the Chief Secretary, and Divisional Secretaries. Authorities also expect that if the prevailing heavy rainy weather subsides, these schools will be able to reopen tomorrow.