Govt. outsourcing school textbook printing to private sector

Wednesday, 10 September 2025 05:49 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says Cabinet decides on move as State-run printers uncompetitive
Allocates Rs. 3.5 b for project involving 29 private printers
Says cheaper to outsource to private sector
Argues State institutions bloated with coddled staff

Cabinet Spokesperson and Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said yesterday that 60% of school textbooks and modules will be printed by 29 private companies, as State-run printing organisations are no longer cost-effective.

“The State printing organisations do not offer market competitive rates,” Jayatissa said. “They have been overstaffed by previous Governments, and staff have been given various incentive schemes over the years. This increases their cost of production and they can’t compete with private companies. Printing outside is cheaper for the Government.”

He added that State entities would handle 40% of the requirement, while private firms will produce the balance. A total of 27.12 million copies of 366 types of textbooks and modules are due to be printed.

According to the Minister, tenders were invited for the project, and 29 private printing institutions submitted bids. Out of this, 25.49 million copies of 362 textbooks and modules will be printed at a cost of Rs. 3.5 billion.