Ministry probes colours award controversy at Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya

 

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The Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education has requested a detailed report from the principal of Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya following an incident at a recent colours award ceremony that has sparked widespread public debate.

Ministry Secretary Nalaka Kaluwewa said the Ministry is closely monitoring the situation and will determine appropriate instructions and further action after reviewing the report.

The controversy arose when a student publicly claimed she was denied an award during the ceremony due to her absence from rehearsals. A video of the announcement went viral on social media, drawing mixed reactions. While some praised the student for speaking out, others argued that the student who received the award was equally deserving.

The incident has also prompted reactions from various stakeholders, including the school’s Old Girls’ Association, which has called for a fair and transparent inquiry into the matter.

The Old Girls’ Association of Sirimavo Bandaranaike Vidyalaya issued a statement acknowledging that both the squash player and the swimmer involved had brought honour and recognition to the school through their respective sporting achievements.

The association said it would request the school administration to intervene and conduct a fair, impartial and transparent inquiry into the matter, before a panel comprising qualified sports experts. It added that a report would be made available once the inquiry is concluded.

Until then, the Old Girls’ Association urged all parties to refrain from sharing or circulating posts or statements that could negatively affect the students concerned or damage the reputation of the school.