Classes from grade 6 to grade 13 in schools in all areas other than the Western Province and isolated areas were opened today for the third term, but there was a significant drop in student attendance, according to our correspondents.

Attendance in urban schools was very low, while in rural areas it is reported that a higher student participation has been noted.

Speaking to the Hiru news team the General Secretary of the Ceylon Teachers Union Joseph Stalin stated that the student attendance percentage is around 5 percent.Classes from grade 6 to grade 13 in schools in all areas other than the Western Province and isolated areas were opened today for the third term, but there was a significant drop in student attendance, according to our correspondents.

Attendance in urban schools was very low, while in rural areas it is reported that a higher student participation has been noted.

Speaking to the Hiru news team the General Secretary of the Ceylon Teachers Union Joseph Stalin stated that the student attendance percentage is around 5 percent.

However, Education Ministry Secretary Prof. Kapila Perera told the Hiru news team according to statistics that more than 60 percent of students have attended most schools.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Education further stated that the attendance of teachers was at a maximum level

However, Education Ministry Secretary Prof. Kapila Perera told the Hiru news team according to statistics that more than 60 percent of students have attended most schools.

The Secretary to the Ministry of Education further stated that the attendance of teachers was at a maximum level.