Sri Lanka Schools 4-Day Week Letter 2026 – Wednesday Holiday Due to Fuel Crisis
The Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education has issued an important letter introducing a temporary four-day school week due to the ongoing global fuel crisis. According to this directive, all schools will remain closed on Wednesdays until further notice, while alternative home-based learning activities must be arranged for students. This measure aims to reduce fuel consumption while ensuring continuity in education across Sri Lanka.
School Administrative and Teaching-Learning Activities During the Fuel Crisis
Important instructions issued by the Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education.
Issued By
Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, Isurupaya, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka.
Date & Reference
Date: 2026.03.17
Ref: ED/09/12/06/05/01-2026
Main Purpose
To continue school administration and teaching-learning activities while responding to the global fuel crisis and reducing energy use.
School Schedule
All schools will operate only four days per week. Until further notice, every Wednesday will be a school holiday.
Home Learning
Principals must arrange suitable teaching-learning activities so students can continue self-study at home every Wednesday.
Time Management
School hours must not be used for programs, festivals or other activities organized by the school or outside institutions.
School Events
For upcoming school functions and celebrations, high fuel-consuming activities such as vehicle parades should be temporarily suspended.
Educational Tours
Planned educational trips with student participation, and future tours, must be suspended until further notice.
Who Must Follow This
Provincial Chief Secretaries, Education Secretaries, Provincial and Zonal Directors, Deputy/Assistant Directors, Heads of Pirivenas, and Principals of Government and Government-approved Private Schools.
Future Updates
Once the current situation improves, further instructions will be issued regarding the continuous operation of schools.
Signed By
Nalaka Kaluwewe
Secretary
Official Contact
Website: www.moe.gov.lk
General Phone: +94 11 278 5141-50
Secretary's Office: +94 11 278 4811
Email: secretary.education@moe.gov.lk
