World · Sri Lanka Bureau
School principal held over alleged student admission bribery scheme
Education authorities have arrested a school principal on suspicion of demanding bribes from parents in exchange for student admissions. The allegations have prompted a wider review of admission practices at educational institutions across the region.
LSN Sri Lanka ·

A school principal has been taken into custody following allegations that he solicited payments from parents seeking to secure places for their children at the institution. The arrest comes as education officials intensify scrutiny of admission procedures at schools following public complaints about corrupt practices.
Authorities initiated the investigation after receiving multiple reports from parents who alleged they were pressured to make unauthorized payments beyond standard fees. The principal is accused of using his position to extract money by suggesting that such payments would facilitate faster processing of applications or guarantee admission slots.
Education ministry officials stated that preliminary inquiries indicate similar practices may have occurred over an extended period. The case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability in school admissions across the country, where competition for places at popular institutions remains intense.
The arrested official has been remanded pending further investigation. Authorities have indicated that additional charges may be filed depending on the scope of findings. Meanwhile, the education ministry has announced plans to strengthen oversight mechanisms and establish clearer admission guidelines to prevent future occurrences of such malpractice.