No decision yet on reopening universities - Education Minister

No final decision has still been taken on reopening universities, Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris said. 

Speaking during a media briefing in Galewela, Prof. Peiris explained that a decision on reopening universities had still not been taken owing to the issue of student hostels.

Education authorities have repeatedly expressed concerns over the heightened risk of COVID-19 infection at student hostels since a large number of students will be using common facilities. 

Nevertheless, the Education Minister emphasised that universities should be reopened as soon as possible. "We are looking to find a solution to the issue. We also hope to obtain advice from the Director General of Health Services on vaccinating the university student population," he added. 

The minister also said that esults of the 2020 GCE Advanced Level Examination can be released by end of April while results of the 2020 GCE Ordinary Level Examination can be released by June,

Prof. Peiris further said that since A/Level exam results will be released by end of April, there won't be a delay in students who have qualified to be admitted to universities. Meanwhile, the Government hopes to commence classes for new A/Level students in July, he further stated.