Govt., SLPP differ on Z-score system for Varsity admissions
View(s):Both, the Government and the SLPP differ in their opinion whether the Z-score system used for University admissions, should be changed or not.
This was after SLPP candidate Gotabaya Rajapaksa submitted fresh proposals in his manifesto, to change the Z-score system.
Mr Rajapaksa’s manifesto states, “In selecting students to State universities, the Z-score is currently determined on a district basis, regardless of the difference in the facilities provided to the main schools, as against other schools in the same district, which have lesser facilities and teachers. We intend introducing a new scientific method for university admissions, based on the school, rather than the district.”
However, Education Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said Mr Rajapaksa’s proposal would be damaging, as students will be able to enter universities using political influence.
He said it would be unfair to base the system on schools, rather than considering the district, as it would be difficult to monitor which of the schools have better facilities. “If it is district-wise, it is easy to monitor, but not school-wise,” he added.
He said it is clear that Mr Rajapaksa has made his proposal without an in-depth study on Education. - DW