Colombo, 09 September 2026 – The Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government has issued a new circular, Public Administration Circular No. 04/2017 (III), further refining the procedures for attaching students to public institutions for practical training. Dated 07 September 2026, the circular introduces key amendments to existing guidelines, aiming to enhance efficiency and clarity in the practical training process across the Sri Lankan public sector.
This latest directive builds upon previous circulars, specifically Public Administration Circular No. 04/2017 (dated 28.02.2017), 04/2017 (I) (dated 10.08.2017), and 04/2017 (II) (dated 04.06.2025). The new circular, addressed to Secretaries to Ministries, Chief Secretaries of Provinces, and Heads of Departments, consolidates and updates crucial provisions regarding the approval and duration of practical training.
Key Amendments Introduced
The core of Public Administration Circular No. 04/2017 (III) lies in the modification of two significant paragraphs and the deletion of another from the initial 2017 circular. Other provisions stipulated in the preceding circulars remain unchanged.
Delegation of Authority for Approvals
Paragraph 02 of Public Administration Circular No. 04/2017 has been comprehensively amended. Authority is now delegated to all Secretaries of Ministries, Chief Secretaries of Provinces, and District Secretaries to approve applications for practical training. This decentralization is expected to expedite the approval process for a wide range of students seeking hands-on experience in government entities.
The students eligible for such training include:
- Those who have completed courses at government training institutes such as the Vocational Training Authority of Sri Lanka, National Youth Services Council, National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, and Technical Colleges.
- Students from Computer Laboratories operating in schools under the Ministry of Education, Zonal Computer Resource Centres, and Provincial Information and Communication Technology Centres.
- Undergraduates in their second, third, and fourth years following degree programmes at foreign or state universities recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), universities established under an Act of Parliament of Sri Lanka, or degree courses recognized under Section 25A of the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978.
Clarification on Training Duration
Paragraph 06 of the original circular has also been amended to provide a clear guideline on the maximum duration of practical training. All practical trainings shall now be strictly limited to a maximum period of six months. However, the circular also provides for flexibility: in cases where the prescribed practical training period of a specific course exceeds six months, the training shall not exceed that particular course’s prescribed duration.
Additionally, Paragraph 08 of Public Administration Circular No. 04/2017 has been deleted, further streamlining the administrative framework.
Impact and Significance
These amendments signify a strategic move by the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government to streamline the process of practical training within the public sector. By delegating approval authority to Secretaries of Ministries, Chief Secretaries of Provinces, and District Secretaries, the circular aims to reduce bureaucratic delays and make practical training more accessible and efficient for eligible students.
The clear guidelines on training duration will also help public institutions better manage their resources and provide structured training experiences. This initiative is crucial for bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application, preparing a new generation of skilled professionals for the workforce, and enhancing the capabilities of public institutions across the island.
The circular, issued by S. Alokabandara, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, has been issued with the concurrence of the General Treasury, underscoring its official endorsement and broader governmental support.
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