In response to the widespread natural disasters that affected multiple regions of Sri Lanka during November and December this year, the government has announced that school students impacted by these events will receive financial and medical assistance through a government-backed insurance scheme. This support will be provided under the Suraksha Sisu insurance programme, which safeguards the health and education of nearly four million school-going children across the country.
The Suraksha Sisu scheme, entirely funded by the government and administered by the Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General, was originally launched in 2017. It has recently been enhanced for the 2025–2026 academic year to provide more comprehensive coverage. The programme primarily aims to prevent students from dropping out of school due to medical emergencies or family crises, ensuring continuity in their education.
Government sources have confirmed that children who lose their parents or legal guardians as a result of natural disasters are eligible for special benefits under this scheme. In these cases, no income limits will apply. However, students must submit verifiable documentation to confirm the loss and extent of the damage in order to claim the benefits.
Significantly, the insurance company has approved support of up to LKR 20,000 (approximately USD 65) for medical expenses, including doctor consultations, medicines, and diagnostic tests, arising from disaster-related injuries or illnesses.
The table below summarises the key features of the Suraksha Sisu programme for disaster-affected students:
| Benefit Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Insurance Programme | Suraksha Sisu |
| Managing Authority | Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation General |
| Target Group | Approximately 4 million school students |
| Death Benefits | Special support for students who lose parents/guardians, no income limit applies |
| Medical Expense Coverage | Up to LKR 20,000 for medicines, tests, and treatment |
| Applicable Academic Year | 2025–2026 |
Experts have highlighted that government-backed insurance schemes play a crucial role in providing both financial and psychological security to students affected by natural disasters. The Secretary of Education emphasised, “No calamity should interrupt a child’s education, and Suraksha Sisu ensures this commitment is upheld.”
This initiative not only guarantees the safety and well-being of students but also alleviates the financial burden on families affected by disasters. Additionally, the government plans to provide dedicated assistance in the coming months to streamline the claims process, ensuring that support reaches eligible students quickly and efficiently.
Sri Lanka’s approach has been widely recognised as a benchmark for combining educational and social protection, offering a secure future for children in the face of natural calamities.