Academics protest over interference into universities autonomy

A one-day token strike was held today across the state  universities in protest  to what they called an  unnecessary intervention by the University Grants Commission (UGC) regarding university autonomy.

President of the Federation of University Teachers' Associations (FUTA) Prof. PR Weerathunga said the  purpose of the strike was to protest against UGC  releasing a letter to all the universities instructing Vice Chancellors not to appoint new Deans or Heads of Departments until further notice.

This is seen as illegal because it contradicts the existing Universities Act No. 16 of 1978, which contains clear provisions for these appointments, he said.

Instead of permanent appointments, the UGC has directed the appointment of acting directors and deans which has led to unnecessary complexities and stress within the university administration.

Timesonline was told that Rajarata University has been without a Vice Chancellor for one and a half years. Despite the university council following legal procedures to nominate candidates, they were rejected twice by UGC, which is viewed as an unnecessary administrative issue. 

The government and Cabinet have approved to amend the Universities Act No. 16 of 1978, citing ambiguity and inconsistencies in sections 49(1) and 51(1) regarding the qualifications for Deans and Heads of Faculty.

The UGC is directing universities to pause appointments until these amendments are sorted. However, Prof Weerathunga said that the existing law must be applied until a new law is officially passed and signed by the Speaker. The amendment is expected for a second reading in January 2026.