Education Spending to Surge Under New Budget, Says Minister

COLOMBO (News 1st); Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the government expects to allocate between Rs. 450 to 500 billion for education under the central ministry alone, with the total figure nearing Rs. 600 billion when provincial councils are included.

“This is not just a number—it’s the collective contribution of our citizens,” the Minister said, stressing that the funds come from taxpayers across all income levels, including indirect taxes paid through everyday purchases. 

“These billions are built from Rs. 10, Rs. 100, Rs. 1,000—contributions from the people.”

Dr. Jayatissa acknowledged a systemic flaw in Sri Lanka’s fiscal management: the lack of a national plan and structured prioritization in how tax revenue is spent. 

He emphasized that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his dual role as Head of State and Minister of Finance, is committed to ensuring that public funds are spent transparently, efficiently, and with clear priorities.