News Archives - Page 7 of 17

Elephants Rampage at Festival: 13 Injured in Stampede

At a Hindu festival in Kataragama, Sri Lanka, joy turned to chaos. An elephant, startled during the festivities, ran through the crowd. This caused other elephants to join in, leading to a dangerous situation.

In Sri Lanka, 13 people were hurt and needed hospital care. Thankfully, they have all recovered. Elephants are a big part of religious events in Sri Lanka. But this incident raises concerns about their role and the safety of people.

elephants go on rampage & stampede injuring 13 at religious festival

Key Takeaways

An elephant stampede at the Kataragama festival led to injuries and safety worries.
This event shows the dangers of elephants in crowded places.
The injured people have all been looked after and are now out of the hospital.
It’s time to think about how we include animals in our traditions, considering both ethics and safety.
People organizing festivals, those who care about animals, and officials must work together. This will help avoid accidents in the future.

Chaos and Fear: How the Celebration Turned Catastrophic

The peaceful Ruhunu Kataragama Perahera festival in Sri Lanka suddenly changed. An elephant in the procession got aggressive. This led to 13 people getting hurt in Kataragama, about 175 miles from Colombo. Emergency teams came fast to help, and many injured were taken to hospitals.

Looking closely at these events shows how hard it is to manage big animals at festivals. Incidents not just in Sri Lanka but around the world call for better animal control. Even the best plans can fail when an elephant suddenly acts out, as seen in Colombo and Kandy.

The issues raise big worries about the safety of animals and people at these festivals. It’s essential to have good emergency plans ready. After this event, there’s been a lot of talk about changing how we handle animals at such events to keep everyone safe.

It’s tricky when tradition and safety intersect. We need smart, kind ways to manage animals and crowds. By learning from incidents around the world, we can handle high-risk situations better. This keeps our traditions alive safely.

Elephants Go on Rampage & Stampede Injuring 13 at Religious Festival

A sacred festival in Sri Lanka turned chaotic, injuring 13 people. This happened at the Ruhunu Kataragama Perahera, around 8:30 pm. Elephants and people panicked, showing we need better safety and animal care measures at these events.

Initial Panic: The Beginning of the Rampede

The trouble began 175 miles south of Colombo, in Kataragama. An elephant strayed, causing panic among people and other elephants. This led to a dangerous stampede. It shows the importance of strict crowd control and public safety at big gatherings.

Emergency Response: Controlling the Mayhem

Emergency teams quickly came to help those hurt and control the chaos. They worked hard to calm the elephants and help the injured. This highlighted the need for careful planning when animals are part of cultural events.

Aftermath: Injuries Treated and Discharged

Those hurt were rushed to Kataragama hospital for treatment. Thankfully, they all left the hospital okay. This raises talks about safety and managing events with animals, especially with the Sri Lankan elephant’s endangered status.

Three Arrested Over Alleged Plot Targeting Israeli Tourists

Sri Lankan authorities recently caught suspects tied to a plot. This plot threatened the safety of Israeli tourists. It was uncovered in intelligence reports that there was a plan to target Israeli-driven spots. Especially in Arugam Bay, a favorite among Israeli visitors affected by the Maldives’ ban in support of Gaza.

Three Arrested Over Alleged Plot Targeting Israeli Tourists

Right now, there are about 575 Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan officials have stepped up safety measures drastically. They have increased police and military around key sites. This move shows Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to keeping visitors safe. It’s important for their tourism, which is vital to the economy.

The governments of Israel and the USA have issued travel warnings. They point out higher risks in particular places in Sri Lanka. They’ve set up a special hotline for Israeli tourists needing urgent help. This shows fast action and teamwork by the government to protect visitors. This effort supports Sri Lanka’s growing tourism industry. It might even surpass the Maldives as a top spot, says OMP Sri Lanka.

The recent arrests show Sri Lanka’s dedication to national security. This comes after the tragedy of 2019, when 269 people died in a horrific attack. Sri Lanka’s police are determined to avoid a repeat of that sad history. Their efforts, along with the Commonwealth Union Ltd. and the Appé Lanka Foundation, are helping community growth and healing. It’s all part of Sri Lanka’s bigger plan for progress, as shared by OMP Sri Lanka.

Unveiling the Arrests and Security Response

After getting tips about a terrorist plot against Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka, the authorities acted fast. They caught three suspects. This fast action was to stop a possible plot linked to conflicts in the Middle East. Officials said these suspects apprehended had links abroad, including with groups in Iraq. This showed the global nature of the threat.

Law enforcement operation

The Sri Lankan government upped its security, focusing on places tourists like to go. Right after catching the suspects, they boosted safety. They set up a hotline for people to report anything odd. This helped keep everyone safer.

They also worked more with other countries’ spies to check on the suspects. This careful watch shows they’re serious about stopping revenge attacks. These could be because of what Israel does in the area.

Keeping people safe and peaceful is very important. After stopping this terrorist plot, Sri Lanka kept its strong security. This shows Sri Lanka’s strong stand against terrorism. They want to keep the country safe from outside dangers.

It’s important to see how these actions affect the world. It affects not just Sri Lanka, but also how countries work together and stay stable. To see more about how Sri Lanka balances safety and culture, look at this article about traditional handicrafts in Sri. It shows how they keep their culture alive while staying safe.

Event	Details
Initial intelligence report	Indicated a potential terrorist threat targeting Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka
Suspects’ ties	Linked to international groups, notably in Iraq
Security measures implemented	Security heightened in tourist regions, emergency hotline established
Objective	Preempt reprisals tied to geopolitical tensions, maintain regional stability

Sri Lanka stays vigilant and keeps its security tough to prevent threats. As things change, they keep checking and updating safety. This protects everyone in the region, including visitors from other countries.

Understanding the Broader Impact of the Arrests

The recent capture of suspects threatening Israeli tourists in Arugam Bay has affected many areas. Sri Lankan police worked with global teams, highlighting the need for quick action and intelligence to keep peace and protect tourism, including places like the Jewish community center and Chabad House. These events are part of bigger, world-wide concerns over terror-linked actions.

In Europe, extremist attacks have big impacts. The attack on Moscow’s Crocus concert hall was very harmful. Now, as Europe faces events like the Paris Olympics, it reacts by increasing security efforts, learning from past events. We’re reminded how critical safe international relations are, as seen in Sri Lanka and Pakistan’s efforts to boost air travel for tourism and growth.

Sri Lanka is also focusing on education as a path to stability, with a huge budget for 2024. By spending Rs. 465 billion, they aim to improve their educational structure. This move shows Sri Lanka’s commitment against extremism and for economic strength. Through promoting education for all, Sri Lanka is fighting threats and pushing for progress. Education helps build a society that can stand against outside dangers effectively.

Sri Lanka’s Education Minister: New Reforms for 2024

Sri Lanka’s Education Minister announced a pilot program for reforms starting in 2024. The changes will affect all grades and cover policy, curriculum, teaching methods, and student assessment.

The reforms aim to digitize the entire education system. This effort will receive support from local and foreign sponsors. The ministry plans to change exam schedules for GCE O/L and A/L.

The 2024 budget allocates Rs. 517 billion to education. The Ministry of Education will receive Rs. 237 billion. Provincial education will get Rs. 280 billion.

The increased funding will support new initiatives. These include hiring 2,535 teachers for estate schools. A special program for early childhood development is also planned.

The Ministry’s digitization efforts will involve local and foreign partnerships. About 452,000 students are expected to take the G.C.E. (O/L) exam. Of these, 388,000 will be first or second-time attendees.

Education Ministry Announces Pilot Program for New Reforms

Sri Lanka’s Education Ministry will launch a pilot program in 2024. It introduces reforms to change the nation’s learning landscape. The program focuses on classroom technology and skill-based learning for grades 1-13.

The reforms aim to digitalize the entire education system. Local and foreign sponsors support this transformative initiative. The ministry wants to improve education quality and prepare students for a digital world.

Restructuring Examinations and Accelerating University Completion

The ministry proposes changes to key examination schedules. Students will take GCE O/L in Grade 10 and GCE A/L in Grade 12. This change allows students to finish university before turning 21.

Empowering Educators and Enhancing Infrastructure

The 2024 budget allocates Rs 517 billion for education. Rs 237 billion is for national initiatives, and Rs 280 billion for provincial education development. These funds will help recruit 2,535 teachers for estate schools.

The ministry has created a special program for early childhood development. It targets children aged 3-5. This initiative aims to nurture young minds and build a strong learning foundation.

Sri Lanka is starting a transformative educational journey. The ministry wants to create a tech-savvy learning environment. These reforms aim to produce well-rounded, globally competitive individuals for a brighter future.

Increased Budget Allocation for Education in 2024

Sri Lanka’s government recognizes education’s vital role in economic recovery. The Ministry of Education received a hefty Rs. 517 billion budget for 2024. This includes Rs. 237 billion for the ministry and Rs. 280 billion for provincial education.

The government remains committed to improving education despite challenges. The World Bank’s projection of 4.4% growth for Sri Lanka highlights education’s importance. Investing in education can unlock potential and create new job opportunities.

Addressing Teacher Shortages and Student Welfare

The Ministry of Education is tackling teacher shortages and student well-being. They’ve taken several key steps to address these issues.

They’re filling 50% of 808 vacant teaching positions with Treasury approval. They’ve also approved 707 teacher education service positions.

The ministry is recruiting 5,450 personnel in science, math, English, and other subjects. They’ve finished 80% of school uniform work for the year.

Plans are in place to provide meals to all school students next year. By 2030, they aim to offer lunch to every school child.

Special Programs for Children with Special Needs and Inclusive Education

The government is committed to inclusive education initiatives. They’ve created special programs for children with special needs. These programs aim to integrate these children into classrooms with their peers.

The increased budget will support these inclusive learning programs. This ensures no child is left behind in their educational journey.

Sri Lanka’s government is building a strong foundation for future growth. Investing in education will bring long-term benefits. It will equip the next generation with skills to drive economic progress.

New Educational Reforms to Be Introduced in 2024, Says Education Minister

Sri Lanka’s Education Minister announced new reforms for 2024. These changes aim to modernize education and optimize resources. The National Education Policy Framework (NEPF) outlines these reforms.

The NEPF plans to create autonomous Provincial Boards of Education. It seeks expert help to develop necessary regulations. Funding will come from existing resources and partnerships.

Private contributions will also support these educational transformations.

Cabinet Memorandum and Circular to Be Issued Soon

A cabinet memorandum detailing the reforms will be presented soon. A circular will follow shortly after. These reforms address recent disruptions in education.

Fuel shortages, power cuts, and Covid-19 have greatly impacted schools. The new changes aim to solve these issues.

Reforms Aim to Address Challenges Faced by Education Sector

The 2022 economic crisis caused major problems in Sri Lanka’s education system. Many lecturers left the country, with 1,200 academics emigrating between 2022 and 2023.

New reforms will modernize education and increase university student stipends. They’ll also address salary gaps among educators, as promised by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The reforms will improve teacher training programs. This is crucial, as Sri Lanka offers many subjects for GCE O/L and A/L exams.

Proposed Changes to G.C.E. (O/L) and G.C.E. (A/L) Examination Schedules

G.C.E. (O/L) exams may move to December. G.C.E. (A/L) exams could shift to August. Interviews have filled teaching vacancies in science, technology, and foreign languages.

Over 3,000 new teachers will start at schools by June 1st. This will help address the shortage of educators in key subjects.

Education Ministry’s Reform Initiatives to Bring Significant Advancements

Sri Lanka’s Education Ministry is making big changes. They’re improving schools, especially for kids with special needs. The ministry is also increasing Zonal Education Offices to 120.

Over 500 new language teachers have joined schools nationwide. They teach Korean, German, French, Hindi, Chinese, and Japanese. This boost helps schools offer more language choices.

The ministry plans to upgrade 19 National Colleges of Education. These will become universities. This change aims to train 7,500 new teachers each year.

The recent surge in Sri Lanka’s agriculture may help fund these changes. It could also boost the country’s economy.

These reforms are part of the National Education Strategy 2024-2030. This six-year plan aims to improve life for teachers and students. It focuses on wellbeing, growth, empowerment, equity, and inclusion.

The ministry has a strong system to check the plan’s progress. They’re committed to making education better. These changes should greatly improve Sri Lanka’s schools.

FAQ

What is the Education Ministry’s plan for implementing new educational reforms in 2024?

Minister Susil Premajayantha announced a pilot program for new educational reforms across all grades. The Ministry plans to digitize the entire education system. Local and foreign sponsors will support this initiative.

When will the GCE O/L and A/L Examinations be conducted under the new reforms?

The GCE O/L Examination will take place in Grade 10. The GCE A/L Examination will be held in Grade 12. Students are expected to finish university before turning 21.

How much has been allocated to the education sector in the 2024 budget?

The 2024 budget allocates Rs. 237 billion to the Ministry of Education. An additional Rs. 280 billion is designated for education at the provincial level. The total education budget is approximately Rs. 517 billion.

What initiatives are being taken for children with special needs?

Special programs have been created for children with special needs. An inclusive education system will integrate them into regular classrooms. Schools are improving facilities to accommodate these students.

When will the cabinet memorandum and circular outlining the reforms be issued?

The cabinet memorandum detailing the reforms will be presented soon. The accompanying circular will follow shortly after.

What challenges do the new educational reforms aim to address?

The reforms tackle issues like fuel shortages, power cuts, and Covid-19 disruptions. These problems have significantly impacted the education sector.

How many language teachers have been recruited and deployed to schools?

Over 500 language teachers have joined schools across the country. They teach Korean, German, French, Hindi, Chinese, and Japanese.

What are the plans for National Colleges of Education?

Nineteen National Colleges of Education will become universities. This change aims to boost college enrollment. The goal is to produce 7,500 qualified teachers each year.

Sri Lanka: New Education Initiatives Announced by Govt

Sri Lanka’s government has unveiled groundbreaking education reforms. These policies aim to improve schools and enhance student support services. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has prioritized significant funding for the education sector.

The 2023 education budget includes major investments in resources. These include free textbooks worth Rs. 20 billion and uniforms for over four million students. The government also provides comprehensive health coverage for students.

These policies show a strong commitment to improving education quality. They also ensure equal access for all students. The government aims to create South Asia’s most advanced educational system.

The ministry has introduced technology streams in National Colleges of Education. This move modernizes teacher education for the digital age. It equips instructors with skills for the global economy.

The reforms also focus on vocational education and skill development. A 13-year education strategy includes initiatives for vocational training programs. These programs will provide students with marketable skills for the job market.

Cambridge Climate Quest: Self-Paced Study Course for Grades 8-12

Cambridge University Press and Assessments has launched the Cambridge Climate Quest. This free self-paced learning program is for students in grades 8-12. It teaches essential knowledge about climate education and sustainability studies.

The course will be available in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. Scholars from Cambridge Zero have created high-quality materials that match the latest curriculum updates.

Comprehensive Program Offered in All Three National Languages

The Cambridge Climate Quest is accessible to students across Sri Lanka. By offering the course in three languages, it reaches a wide audience. This approach fosters a deeper understanding of sustainability among Sri Lankan youth.

Equipping Young Learners with Essential Knowledge of Climate and Sustainability

Students can progress through the course materials at their own speed. This flexibility allows them to fully grasp the concepts and engage with the content. Young learners can take ownership of their education in sustainability studies.

Cambridge Certification Upon Successful Completion

Students who complete the course will receive a Cambridge Certification. This recognition validates their knowledge of climate change and sustainability. The certification can open doors to future opportunities in sustainability studies.

Christine Ozden, Global Director of Cambridge University Press and Assessments, met with Sri Lankan leaders. She pledged support for this groundbreaking initiative. The collaboration highlights a shared vision of promoting climate education.

The Cambridge Climate Quest is a significant step in curriculum updates. It prioritizes sustainability and environmental awareness. Sri Lanka is setting a strong example for other nations in fighting climate change.

Government Announces Major Initiatives to Boost Education System

The Sri Lankan government has unveiled ambitious plans to improve education across the nation. Education Minister Susil Premajayantha announced the digitalization of the entire education system. This move aims to modernize learning and prepare students for the digital age.

The 2024 budget allocates Rs. 517 billion for education. This includes Rs. 237 billion for the Ministry of Education and Rs. 280 billion for provincial education. The funding allocation shows the government’s commitment to investing in education technology and resources.

A pilot program will launch across all grades in 2024. It will test new teaching methods, curriculum updates, and education technology integration. The government will use the results to refine reforms before nationwide implementation.

Digitalization of the Entire Education System

The government prioritizes digital literacy in education. This involves adopting advanced learning management systems and interactive digital content. Online platforms will improve communication between teachers and students.

Technology will create a more engaging and personalized learning experience. It will also provide teachers with tools to deliver high-quality instruction.

Special Programs for Children with Special Needs and Inclusive Education

The government has created special programs for children with special needs. These programs offer tailored support and resources to ensure quality education for all children.

An inclusive education system will promote diversity, equity, and acceptance in classrooms. Teacher training programs will help educators integrate technology and adapt to the new curriculum.

Sri Lanka’s commitment to education is commendable. With proper investments and support, the country can nurture well-educated, digitally savvy citizens. These future leaders will drive progress in the years to come.

Flinders University, Australia to Establish Offshore Campus in Sri Lanka

Flinders University, an Australian institution, plans to open a campus in Sri Lanka. This move will meet the growing demand for quality degrees in the region. Professor Colin Stirling recently met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe to discuss this project.

Flinders University has shown strong growth in research funding. Their annual income from research grants has increased by 140% in five years. In 2022, the university saw a 39% growth in research income.

The university focuses on cutting-edge fields. These include digital technologies, AI, defense technologies, and digital arts.

The new campus will offer various undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Programs will cover Engineering, IT, Business, Finance, Marketing, and Medicine. This initiative will improve higher education in Sri Lanka.

Flinders University ranked first in Australia for postgraduate employment in 2021/22. Their industry partnerships provide students with valuable workplace experience. These collaborations help students gain skills needed in today’s job market.

The university is investing in strategic infrastructure. This includes the Health and Medical Research Building and the Factory of the Future. These investments aim to boost research capabilities and enhance the student experience.

FAQ

What is the Cambridge Climate Quest?

The Cambridge Climate Quest is a course for students in Grades 8-12. It teaches about climate and sustainability. Cambridge Zero scholars created the free course in Sri Lanka’s national languages.

How will the government digitize the education system?

The Sri Lankan government plans to digitize the entire education system. Minister Susil Premajayantha announced this initiative with local and foreign support. The goal is to create South Asia’s most advanced educational system.

When will the pilot program for new educational reforms launch?

The pilot program for new educational reforms will start in 2024. It aims to improve the country’s educational landscape. The program will bring changes to all grades.

How much funding has been allocated for education in the 2024 budget?

The 2024 budget allocates Rs. 517 billion for education. Rs. 237 billion goes to the Ministry of Education. Rs. 280 billion is for education at the provincial level.

What is the purpose of establishing an offshore campus of Flinders University in Sri Lanka?

Flinders University, Australia, will open a campus in Sri Lanka. It aims to meet regional demand for higher education. The campus will offer degrees and programs in various fields.

This new campus will enhance Sri Lanka’s educational offerings. It will give local students access to world-class education.

Sri Lanka Becomes UK’s Second Largest TNE Partner

Sri Lanka has surpassed Malaysia as the UK’s second-largest transnational higher education (TNE) partner. It now accounts for 10% of the UK’s total TNE enrollments. This growth has made Sri Lanka a key player in global cross-border education partnerships.

British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick reports a 50% increase in Sri Lankan TNE enrollments. The number of students reached 53,915 between 2022 and 2023. This surge has made Sri Lanka the fastest-growing among the top ten TNE host countries.

The expansion of study abroad programs in Sri Lanka has been largely organic. There has been little intervention from the British government. This growth shows strong demand for high-quality international education among Sri Lankan students.

UK universities have shown willingness to partner with local institutions. These partnerships have contributed to the rapid increase in TNE enrollments from Sri Lanka.

Rapid Growth of UK Transnational Education in Sri Lanka

UK universities are expanding rapidly in Sri Lanka. The country is now the second-largest partner for UK Transnational Education (TNE) in 2022-2023. This growth meets the rising demand for quality education in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Surpasses Malaysia as Second-Largest UK TNE Partner

Sri Lanka now accounts for 10% of all UK TNE enrollments globally. This impressive growth has pushed Sri Lanka past Malaysia. It’s now the second-largest country for UK TNE.

Significant Increase in Sri Lankan Enrollments in UK TNE Programs

UK TNE programs in Sri Lanka have seen a 50% surge in enrollments. Nearly 54,000 students are now enrolled. This shows the growing demand for international education among Sri Lankan students.

Several factors contribute to the rapid expansion of UK TNE in Sri Lanka:

Limited capacity in state universities, with only 44,000 out of 171,532 qualified students gaining admission in 2022
The need for a skilled workforce to support Sri Lanka’s growth targets, particularly in sectors such as IT, engineering, and medicine
The focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs to enhance Sri Lanka’s global competitiveness

Organic Expansion of TNE Partnerships without British Government Intervention

UK TNE in Sri Lanka has grown without significant British government support. Six types of TNE partnerships have been established. These collaborations are mainly between UK universities and local institutions.

Sri Lanka is investing in education and skills development. The international university at Port City Colombo will boost global academic mobility. It aims to attract international students.

Sri Lanka focuses on STEM subjects and partnerships with leading institutions. This positions the country as a potential regional hub for higher education. It’s set to become a key player in the international education market.

Addressing Challenges in Sri Lanka’s Higher Education Sector through TNE

Transnational Education (TNE) tackles Sri Lanka’s higher education challenges. In 2022, only 44,000 of 171,532 qualified students entered state universities. TNE partnerships open doors for those unable to pursue tertiary education.

Sri Lanka saw a 113% growth in TNE program enrollment over five years. This expansion provides more opportunities for students seeking higher education.

Bridging Quality Gaps in Local Education Framework

TNE arrangements improve Sri Lanka’s educational quality by aligning with UK standards. This collaboration enhances employability and skills development, addressing workforce gaps.

TNE partnerships also promote gender parity in higher education. This creates a more inclusive and diverse learning environment for students.

Eliminating Delays in University Admissions through Flexible TNE Programs

TNE programs remove long wait times for state university admissions. Students can start their education promptly, avoiding the typical 1-2 year delay.

This flexibility drives demand for private and transnational education in Sri Lanka. The country now accounts for 10% of all UK TNE enrollments.

Limited Research on TNE’s Impact in Sri Lanka

Despite TNE’s growth in Sri Lanka, comprehensive research on its impact is lacking. Plans are underway to formalize TNE through regulations and monitoring systems.

In-depth studies are needed to understand TNE’s challenges and opportunities. This research will guide policy decisions and shape Sri Lanka’s educational future.

Insights from these studies will ensure TNE continues addressing key issues in tertiary education. These include accessibility, quality, and enrollment backlogs.

FAQ

What is transnational education (TNE)?

TNE involves educational programs where students are in a different country from the institution. It includes branch campuses, distance learning, and partnerships between local and foreign universities.

How has Sri Lanka’s position changed in terms of UK TNE partnerships?

Sri Lanka is now the second-largest TNE partner for UK universities. It accounts for 10% of UK’s total TNE enrollments. This growth happened in just one year.

What types of TNE partnerships exist in Sri Lanka?

Six types of TNE partnerships have been set up in Sri Lanka. Most UK TNE enrollments are through collaborations between UK universities and local institutions.

How has the growth of UK TNE in Sri Lanka occurred?

TNE in Sri Lanka has grown organically, without much British government intervention. From 2022 to 2023, Sri Lankan enrollments in UK TNE programs increased by 50%.

This growth brought the total to 53,915 students. Sri Lanka is now the fastest-growing among the top ten TNE host countries for the UK.

What challenges does Sri Lanka’s higher education sector face?

Only 25% of eligible students get into public universities in Sri Lanka. This creates a big accessibility issue. There are also quality gaps in Sri Lanka’s educational system.

How do TNE partnerships help address these challenges?

TNE partnerships provide a key pathway for students who can’t access higher education otherwise. They expand access and help improve quality by aligning with UK standards.

These programs also eliminate long wait times often linked to state university admissions. Students can enroll without the typical 1-2 year delay.