The Ministry of Education has stated that the promotion and use of drugs and alcohol are strictly prohibited at any event organized using a school crest.

Under Circular No. 2026/10 issued by the Ministry, the Secretary to the Ministry of Education has been empowered to immediately ban any event at which such practices occur.

This was announced by Mahesh Rathnayake, Deputy Director of the Co-Curricular Guidance and Counseling Branch of the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Education, while participating in a press conference held at the main office of the “Ratama Ekata” national operation.

He said parents have repeatedly expressed concerns that children are being exposed to substance abuse during 'Big Matches' held by prominent schools.

Accordingly, the Deputy Director emphasized that any programme conducted under a school's crest will be considered an official school event, and that the use or promotion of alcohol, drugs, or any other intoxicating substances will be strictly prohibited at such events. 

He further stated that the Ministry has taken steps to closely monitor the implementation of this decision.

“Any event that uses the school crest will be regarded as a school function. The use of alcohol, drugs, or any other intoxicating substances will not be permitted at such events. Under this circular, the Secretary to the Ministry of Education has the authority to immediately ban an event if such practices occur,” he added.