Did Sri Lanka Reopen Most Schools After Cyclone Ditwah?
Synopsis
Sri Lanka has reopened nearly all of its schools following the closures caused by Cyclone Ditwah. With free transport provided for affected students and measures to bolster tourism, the country is making strides in recovery. Discover how authorities are addressing the aftermath and preparing for the peak tourism season ahead.
Key Takeaways
Sri Lanka has reopened 9,929 schools after Cyclone Ditwah.
147 schools remain closed in three provinces.
Free transportation for students in affected areas.
Third-term exams for certain classes canceled for 2025.
Tourism recovery measures are underway.
Colombo, Dec 16 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Sri Lanka reopened the majority of its government and government-sanctioned private schools after they were temporarily closed due to the impact of Cyclone Ditwah, a senior official confirmed.
As per the Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Nalaka Kaluwewa, out of the total 10,076 schools in the nation, a staggering 9,929 have resumed operations. However, 147 schools in three provinces—Uva, Central, and North Western—remain closed as emergency conditions persist, he relayed to Xinhua News Agency.
To assist students from areas affected by the disaster, the Sri Lanka Transport Board and the Sri Lanka Railway Department will provide complimentary transport services for schoolchildren for the rest of the year.
Additionally, the Ministry of Education has announced that there will be no third-term examinations for students in Classes 6 to 10 for the upcoming 2025 academic year.
The second phase of the academic term was initially set to commence on December 8, but the Ministry opted to delay the reopening due to the ongoing crisis caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
In related updates, last week, officials disclosed that the Sri Lankan authorities are set to reopen most tourist attractions and initiate recovery measures to revitalize the tourism sector, which has been adversely impacted by Cyclone Ditwah, especially with the peak tourism season on the horizon.
Deputy Minister of Environment Anton Jayakody highlighted that botanical gardens, previously closed due to landslide risks and safety concerns induced by the cyclone, will soon reopen. He instructed relevant bodies to take precautions against landslides in these locations.
Moreover, Sri Lankan tourism officials have launched a marketing initiative under the slogan “Sri Lanka is ready”, aimed at attracting travelers from the country's top 10 source markets through various digital channels.
Earlier, on December 8, Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, announced that a much-anticipated visa-free entry option for travelers from 40 countries is expected to be implemented in January 2026, as part of broader efforts to boost post-disaster recovery and support the peak winter tourism season.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the resilience of Sri Lanka in the face of natural disasters. The reopening of schools and the proactive measures taken by authorities highlight a commitment to education and recovery. While challenges remain, the nation is poised to bounce back, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens and visitors alike.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the school closures in Sri Lanka?
The school closures in Sri Lanka were due to the severe impacts of Cyclone Ditwah, which affected several provinces.
How many schools have reopened?
Out of 10,076 schools, 9,929 have reopened while 147 remain closed due to ongoing emergency conditions.
What support is being provided for affected students?
The Sri Lanka Transport Board and the Railway Department will provide free transport for schoolchildren for the rest of the year.
Are there any changes to the academic schedule?
Yes, the Ministry of Education has canceled third-term examinations for Classes 6 to 10 for the 2025 academic year.
What measures are being taken to boost tourism?
Authorities are reopening tourist attractions and launching a marketing campaign under the theme 'Sri Lanka is ready' to attract travelers.
