IUSF raises issue over Mahapola funding, private unis
View(s):Sri Lanka’s higher education sector is grappling with pressing challenges that necessitate immediate action, particularly concerning the university system, according to the Inter University Student Federation (IUSF).
Its convener Madushan Chandrajith told the Education Times, that key issues include reforms under the National Education Policy Framework (NEPF), which has raised concerns over privatisation.
Proposed changes such as the introduction of fees in State universities, student loan schemes, and the establishment of a National Higher Education Commission reflect a shift toward neoliberal policies, he said.
There is also a push to involve private institutions in public education, jeopardising the free education system that has been a cornerstone of the country’s development, he said.
Additionally, the establishment of private medical colleges poses another critical challenge, he stressed. Institutions such as Kotelawala Defense University are now allowed to offer medical degrees to civilians, with other private institutes following suit.
This threatens the integrity of government medical faculties, which are already struggling due to a lack of resources, according to Mr Chandrajith, including a shortage of professors. The move to privatise medical education could exacerbate existing problems within the sector.
Moreover, university students are calling for an increase in the Mahapola and bursary allowances, which have remained stagnant for nearly a decade and are often disbursed with delays. Rising living costs mean that the current grants, set at Rs 5,000 and Rs 4,000, are insufficient, with students demanding an increase to Rs 10,000 to cover basic expenses.
State universities further face ongoing welfare issues, particularly the lack of adequate hostel facilities. Many students are forced to rent private accommodation due to limited university housing, a problem exacerbated by an increase in student admissions without corresponding expansion of infrastructure.
Addressing these concerns is crucial for improving the quality and accessibility of higher education in Sri Lanka, added Madushan.
Education Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya, has pledged quick solutions for immediate concerns, including issues stemming from NEPF, including dormitory shortages and the lack of clinical facilities for medical students, aiming to ensure fairness to all students.
In a recent discussion between student unions and the prime minister, it was highlighted that the ministry will address short-term matters like the student welfare concerns. She noted that changes such as the Kotelawala Defense University offering medical degrees to civilians will take longer to address. The Ministry is also revising the PAYE tax on lecturers, which contributed to migration, in an effort to retain academic staff in universities, said Madushan.
The minister noted that a comprehensive education reform plan will be developed after the parliamentary elections.
(NA)
HitAd.lk is the best and biggest mobile phone market in Sri Lanka, and we guarantee you will find what you need here from our extensive listing of mobile phones for sale in Sri Lanka. Whether it’s a budget-priced smartphone for communication, or higher end features with advanced connectivity, there are many different options from which to choose from on our site!