Treating all citizens equally.

Treating all citizens equally.

In 2023, the Centre for Justice (CfJ) successfully challenged a discriminatory decision by the Ministry of Education to reduce the intake of student teachers for Islam and Christianity courses at national colleges of education in the Tamil medium. Through a formal complaint to the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRC), CfJ ensured the Ministry reversed its decision, restoring equality in teacher admissions.

Historically, the Ministry of Education admitted an equal number of candidates for Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam teacher training programs in the Tamil medium. However, in 2023, the intake for Islam and Christianity was unfairly reduced to 10 candidates each, while the intake for Hinduism remained at 30. This arbitrary decision caused significant inequity and denied hundreds of aspiring teachers the opportunity to pursue their careers.

CfJ’s complaint to the HRC emphasized the injustice of this reduction, particularly given the existing teacher shortages for Islam and Christianity in many national schools across the country. The complaint highlighted vacancies for Islam (Tamil medium) teachers in all provinces except Sabaragamuwa, and for Christianity (Roman Catholic and non-Roman Catholic) in the North-Central and North-Western Provinces. CfJ requested the HRC to investigate and advise the Ministry to revise its policy.

As a result of CfJ’s intervention, the Ministry of Education increased the intake for Islam and Christianity teacher training to match that of Hinduism, addressing the inequality and ensuring fair treatment for all candidates.

This case showcases CfJ’s unwavering dedication to equality and justice in Sri Lanka’s education system. By advocating for marginalized communities, CfJ continues to protect fundamental rights and promote equitable access to education.