— Acting Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, and Deputy Minister of Vocational Education, Nalin Hewage
The Acting Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, and Deputy Minister of Vocational Education, Mr. Nalin Hewage, stated that it was C.W.W. Kannangara, the great scholar, who opened the doors and windows of education once restricted to a certain social class, creating equal opportunities for all and ensuring the right to education reached the rural villages.
He made these remarks on October 13, 2025, during the 141st birth anniversary commemoration of Mr. Kannangara, after offering floral tributes at the Kannangara statue located in front of the “Isurupaya” premises of the Ministry of Education.
Expressing further views, Mr. Hewage said that Mr. Kannangara, who introduced the Free Education Policy, brought about a remarkable revolution in the field of education and remains one of the most respected and unforgettable figures in the hearts of the Sri Lankan people.
He further mentioned that during the 1950s and 1960s, free education opened university opportunities to a vast number of rural children. Mr. Kannangara is still regarded as a great figure who worked to ensure equal educational opportunities for all citizens of the country.
Across the island, commemorative events celebrating the life and contributions of Mr. Kannangara were held today as part of this remembrance program.
Officials of the Ministry of Education were also present at the occasion.
Media Unit.
