Primary Education Reform in Sri Lanka - Angela Little's website

The Many Splendoured Gem
The fourth goal is the preparation for work opportunities that are dignified, satisfying and
self-fulfilling. In developing countries, the rate of growth in full time employment
opportunities has seldom matched the increase in the supply of educated manpower.
The level of education of the general population has risen considerably in Sri Lanka
although the type of education that enables one to be ‘employable’ has not been given
the consideration it deserves. Consequently, and especially in recent years, there are
many so called ‘educated’ youths who do not have the skills necessary for the available
jobs. Educators need to take a hard look at the content of education programmes and
reorient these to suit present-day needs.
The fifth goal is the institution of a variety of possibilities for all to participate in human
resources development. This highlights the need to consider education not as a pure
service but as an investment in future development. The NEC report states that ‘education
assumes a wider meaning when placed against economic development’ which itself will
be enhanced by suitably developed local human resources. A variety of experiences, be
they in practical activities, work experience or projects, should be available for children
to try out their own skills and understand the complexities of the world of work which
they would later face.
The sixth goal is the generation of a continuous sense of deep and abiding concern for
one another. In the fiercely competitive atmosphere in which children find themselves,
this humane sense of concern and consideration for others is an essential goal which
should always be kept in view. Children should be taught by practice and example to
submerge their inclinations for selfishness and self-aggrandisement. They should substitute
instead caring and sharing attitudes, and should learn to speak up for the voiceless in
society.
Learning to learn and adapt to changing situations is the seventh goal. As change is the
only condition one may expect in the unforeseeable future, ability to meet such a
situation with resilience and flexibility becomes a crucial goal. Of necessity, development
means change. Instead of stunned disbelief and succumbing to the vagaries of
circumstance, one may, if prepared, adapt to it through sound reasoning and informed
insight. The future cannot then approach us as a thief and we will be able to welcome
it as a friend.
The eighth goal is complementary to the above i.e. the capacity to cope with the complex
and the unforeseen, achieving a sense of security and stability. The NEC report states
that a sense of security and stability is an essential prerequisite for internal peace and
harmony but the path to security may be affected by both internal and external factors.
One should thus be armed with sound mental and physical health (internal factors).
This involves clear and analytical thinking, creative problem solving and a healthy body
with strength to resist disease, stress and trauma.
The final goal identified is development of competencies which will help secure an
honourable place in the international community. Although this may be considered as
irrelevant for individual development, human development in general brings strength
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