In a country where education continues to evolve in tandem with technological and societal changes, Prof. (Dr.) Thushari Koralage stands out as a beacon of leadership, innovation, and resilience. From humble beginnings in government schools to
pioneering a reputed network of private educational institutions across Sri Lanka, her story is one of unwavering purpose.
As the founder and Chairperson of Asian Grammar School and Giggles International Montessori, Dr. Koralage has consistently pushed boundaries to ensure quality education is accessible and inclusive. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes compassion, structure, and innovation, deeply rooted in a belief that no child should be left behind. In this conversation, she shares the key moments that shaped her career, the challenges she faces in modern education, and her hopes for the future of private schooling in Sri Lanka.
Q Dr. Koralage, your journey in education is remarkable. Could you highlight the key milestones that shaped your path?
It all began with a deep passion for teaching, my first student was our housemaid, when I was just six. That passion led me to a government post as an English teacher and later an In-Service Advisor in the Department of Education. However, in 2000, I found myself disillusioned by limitations within the state sector. Eager to implement innovative approaches and make English education inclusive, I made the bold decision to step away and carve my own path in private education.
Q What motivated your move from public service to founding Giggles International Montessori and later Asian Grammar School?
After leaving the government role, I wanted to realize my educational goals independently. While searching for a suitable preschool for my eldest daughter in Gothatuwa, I recognized a gap in early childhood education. This led to the founding of Giggles International Montessori in 2001. Parental demand then encouraged us to expand into primary and secondary education, which laid the foundation for Asian Grammar School, built with the support of my mother, also a teacher.
Q As Chairperson and Principal, what is your leadership approach when managing multiple institutions across different regions?
My philosophy is grounded in the belief that “if there is a will, there is a way.” I drew on my teaching experience and enhanced my management skills through a Master’s in Public Management at SLIDA and exposure to international best practices from countries like the USA, Finland, Japan, and Australia. These learnings have shaped both my strategic and human-centered leadership style.
Q What sets Asian Grammar School apart from other international and private schools in Sri Lanka?
Our ethos, Determination, Discipline, and Dedication is not just a motto, but a lived practice. We focus on stress-free education by applying Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences, allowing each child to pursue learning aligned with their natural abilities. We also run enrichment programs and have dedicated support for students with learning difficulties through our “Children with Determination” unit. Our inclusive model ensures no child is left behind.
Change management is vital. We’ve partnered with institutions like the Informatics Institute of Technology, the Department of Education, and Akura LMS to strengthen our digital capabilities.
Q How do you balance academic achievement with values, discipline, and character-building?
Academic success alone does not produce responsible citizens. At Asian Grammar School, we integrate academics with mandatory co-curricular and extracurricular activities. This balanced environment nurtures holistic growth, intellectually, emotionally, and ethically.
Q What are the main challenges you currently face in private education, especially in a post-pandemic world?
The most pressing issue is the shortage of quality human resources, especially for English-medium instruction. Many trained educators are leaving the country, and private schools receive little to no government support. These factors make sustainability and future-ready reform quite difficult, though essential.
Q How is your institution adapting to the rise of technology in education?
Change management is vital. We’ve partnered with institutions like the Informatics Institute of Technology, the Department of Education, and Akura LMS to strengthen our digital capabilities. At the secondary level, we’ve introduced STEAM education, robotics, and AI to prepare students for the evolving job market and technological landscape.
Q As a woman leader, how has your experience shaped your management style and mentorship approach?
Being a mother of three daughters has naturally influenced my leadership style. I instinctively extend that maternal care to my students and staff when needed. The path hasn’t been easy, female leadership comes with unique challenges, but it’s fulfilling to see many of our students succeed both locally and internationally, and to know I’ve played a part in their growth.
Q What role do you foresee for private education in Sri Lanka in the next decade?
Private education will become increasingly critical. I envision healthy competition between public and private sectors as seen in many global education models. However, sustainability remains a concern. The government must regulate and support private schools more effectively to ensure quality education and systemic balance.
Q Lastly, what message would you like to share with today’s parents and students?
Let children enjoy a childhood similar to what we had 50 years ago. Support their passions, keep them away from screens especially during their early developmental years (ages 1 to 5), and give them both guidance and freedom. The opportunities today are vast, trust your children and nurture them wisely.
RAPID FIRE ROUND
- Your morning starts with? A hot cup of tea.
- A book that inspired you? The Absorbent Mind by Dr. Maria Montessori.
- Your biggest strength? My husband.
- A habit that keeps you productive? Reading.
- Your role model in life? My mother.
- One word that describes Asian Grammar School? Paradise.
- A quality you admire in your students? Discipline.
- Favourite way to unwind after a long day? A refreshing dip in the sea.
- One piece of advice you always give your students? Dream big.
- If you weren’t an educator, you would be? A hotelier.
