Schools, Universities, and Banks Closed for 2024 General Elections

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Ministry of Education announced that following a request from the Election Commission, a decision was made to close all schools across the country tomorrow and the day after (Nov. 13 - 14) due to the 2024 General Elections.

Schools are scheduled to reopen on Monday, November 18.

Additionally, all universities will also remain closed on 13th and 14th November.

The Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Prof. Kapila Seneviratne confirmed that relevant instructions have been sent to the Vice-Chancellors of all universities.

The Election Commission has also instructed that all private and public banks, as well as financial sector employees, be granted leave to enable them to cast their votes.

The Commission issued a statement emphasizing that this leave should be provided without any reduction in regular holidays or salary deductions.

The Election Commission further noted that there have been complaints regarding some banks and financial institutions failing to grant necessary leave for their employees to facilitate voting.