Student Welfare in the University System Requires Urgent Attention - Deputy Minister of Higher Education Dr. Madura Seneviratne
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya emphasized the need for immediate measures to minimize the challenges faced by university students.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a discussion held recently with officials from the University Grants Commission (UGC), following concerns raised by Deputy Minister of Higher Education Dr. Madura Seneviratne regarding the welfare and education of university students.
Dr. Amarasuriya directed UGC officials to investigate and address vacancies impacting students' education and highlighted the underutilization of funds allocated for higher education in previous years. She stressed the importance of ensuring efficient use of these provisions when preparing annual budgets.
"If the foreign loan assistance received by this country had been utilized effectively, our universities could have reached the standards of institutions like Cambridge and Oxford. Unfortunately, a lack of proper project planning and prioritization has led to significant waste," the Prime Minister remarked. She further noted the urgent need for a comprehensive policy on private education, emphasizing that certain institutions are misusing the approvals granted by the Commission.
Dr. Amarasuriya also underscored the importance of addressing gender-based violence within universities and reducing delays in admissions and graduations.
Deputy Minister Dr. Madura Seneviratne brought to the UGC's attention critical issues, including the development of infrastructure at universities such as Sabaragamuwa and Peradeniya, the enhancement of residential facilities, student welfare programs, and the provision of adequate training opportunities.
The discussion was attended by UGC Chairman Kapila Seneviratne, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and other officials.
