A teachers’ union in Kalutara has expressed serious concerns over a new law proposed to protect children, warning that under this legislation, teachers could face up to six months’ imprisonment if they issue even a minor reprimand to a student.
Speaking at a media briefing in Kalutara, union representatives said that the proposed law effectively bans teachers from maintaining discipline in classrooms.
They pointed out that the legislation prohibits teachers from taking disciplinary action, leaving schools vulnerable to disorder.
They described the government responsible for this law as “foolish” and accused it of enacting policies that will destroy Sri Lanka’s longstanding education system.
Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj told Parliament that the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill is aimed at preventing a child’s emotional suffering during and after each punishment received by teachers in school.
The Minister who tabled the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill in Parliament said that the Bill will ensure banning of both physical and non-physical punishment in all schools in the country.
Leave a comment