No change in decision to issue school uniform vouchers - Akila

Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam emphasized that there will be no change to the Education Ministry’s decision to issue vouchers instead of school uniform material for students.

The minister says that certain groups are attempting to mislead the public by spreading false rumors that students will be given material and not vouchers this year.

Kariyawasam said that through the introduction of the uniform voucher system, they were able to put an end to corruption, irregularities, wastage and ‘underhand commission transactions’.

He said the government was also able to destroy the monopoly which had existed with regard to school uniform material and establish a system where small-scale textile and readymade clothing businesses across the country receive an income.

The Education Minister charged that since its inception certain groups have attempted to mislead the public with regard to the voucher system by making various baseless allegations, however presently the entire community is commending the move.