Sri Lanka

Government Announces New Education Reforms for 2025

3rd December 2024

<p>Sweeping education reforms announced today aim to modernize Sri Lanka's schooling system. The changes will better prepare students for the demands of the 21st century job market.</p>

New Archaeological Discovery in Anuradhapura Rewrites History

Archaeologists in Anuradhapura have uncovered ancient artifacts dating back to 300 BC, potentially rewriting Sri Lanka's early history. The discovery includes perfectly preserved pottery, ancient coins, and inscriptions that suggest earlier trade relations with Roman and Chinese civilizations. The findings will be displayed at the National Museum after comprehensive analysis.

New Highway Project to Connect Jaffna and Colombo

The government has approved construction of a new expressway connecting Jaffna to Colombo, reducing travel time from 8 hours to just 4 hours. The $800 million project will include modern infrastructure, rest stops, and digital monitoring systems. Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2025 and expected to boost economic connectivity between northern and western provinces.

Traditional Wooden Boat Building Recognized by UNESCO

Sri Lanka's ancient tradition of wooden boat building has been added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The recognition celebrates centuries-old craftsmanship techniques preserved by coastal communities. The designation will help protect this cultural practice and promote it as a unique tourism attraction, with workshops planned for international visitors.

Parliament Approves New Environmental Protection Act

Sri Lanka's Parliament has passed the Comprehensive Environmental Protection Act 2024, introducing stricter regulations on pollution, wildlife conservation, and sustainable development. The legislation includes provisions for carbon emission limits, plastic waste reduction targets, and enhanced protection for endangered species. Environmental groups have hailed it as landmark legislation.

Sri Lanka and China Sign New Infrastructure Agreements

Sri Lanka and China have signed new agreements worth $600 million for infrastructure development projects, including port modernization, highway construction, and renewable energy plants. The partnerships emphasize technology transfer and local employment, with 70% of project workforce to be Sri Lankan. The agreements strengthen economic ties between the two nations.

Sri Lanka's Inflation Rate Falls to Two-Year Low

The economy shows signs of stabilization heading into 2025.

WHO Declares Eradication of Polio in Two More Countries

Health experts celebrate a milestone in the global vaccination campaign.

Sri Lankan Athletes Shine at Asian Athletics Championship

Sri Lankan athletes won 8 medals, including 3 gold, at the Asian Athletics Championship in Bangkok. Highlights included record-breaking performances in sprint events and field competitions. The successful showing has boosted confidence ahead of next year's World Championships, with several athletes qualifying for international competitions.

Mobile Healthcare Units Expand to Rural Areas

The Ministry of Health has deployed 50 new mobile healthcare units to serve remote villages across Sri Lanka. The specially equipped vehicles provide medical checkups, vaccinations, and basic treatments to communities with limited access to healthcare facilities. The initiative has already served over 10,000 patients and will expand to cover all rural districts by 2026.

International Space Station Celebrates 25 Years in Orbit

Astronauts commemorate a quarter-century of scientific achievement.

Colombo Hosts Major Tech Expo Showcasing AI Startups

Over 100 startups present groundbreaking AI applications at the annual expo.