The Disaster Management Center (DMC) and the Department of Examinations have collaboratively implemented a comprehensive programme to avoid potential disaster situations and ensure the uninterrupted conducting of the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination.  

This initiative has been launched in light of predictions by the Department of Meteorology regarding the possibility of a low-pressure system developing over the Bay of Bengal in the coming week. 

The programme aims to create an optimal environment for students to face the examination without disruptions caused by adverse weather or other disasters.  

Under the patronage of the Director General of the DMC, Major General (Retired) Udaya Herath, an awareness programme was recently conducted at the DMC premises. This session included participation from officials of the Department of Examinations and other relevant institutions, extending from the national to the district level.  

The joint programme also focuses on strengthening the emergency response coordination mechanism to address potential obstacles that may arise for both candidates and officials involved in examination duties. 

Accordingly, the DMC, in collaboration with other disaster management-related institutions, including the armed forces and the police, has already issued necessary guidelines to the relevant departments to manage challenges during the examination period.  

Additionally, a set of emergency contact numbers has been introduced to provide assistance in instances where a student may face difficulties reaching the examination center due to unforeseen circumstances. 

The DMC’s emergency hotline is 117, while the special integrated emergency operations room can be reached at 0113 668 020, 0113 668 100, 0113 668 013, or 0113 668 010. Furthermore, assistance can also be obtained by contacting 076 3 117 117.  

The Disaster Management Center has also informed that the Department of Examinations’ emergency hotline, 1911, can be contacted to address any issues promptly and mitigate potential disruptions.  

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education confirmed on November 20 that the 2024 G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination will proceed as scheduled, commencing on November 25 and continuing until December 20, 2024.