SAITM wants talks to continue

The South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM) yesterday called for more engagement on the Government’s decision to convert it into a non-profit college and said it remained dedicated to the “vision” of educating non-state doctors.  

Indicating that it was not on board with the Government’s decision to end the ownership of SAITM founder Dr. Neville Fernando and his family as well as the recommendations presented on past and present students, the institution insisted that “justice to all parties” was essential.  

“Among the matters of concern arising from the said proposals are issues concerning graduates, students, parents and the staff of SAITM. Therefore, these proposals need to be discussed at length with all stakeholders to ensure that justice to concerned parties is met,” SAITM said in a statement. 

“Going forward, we hope that SAITM graduates will be given provisional registration, subject to court proceedings, and the current students’ education will continue without any disruption to their studies.” 

In its statement SAITM indicated that it would prefer to continue the medical faculty as a privately-owned entity. 

“We also note positively, the vision of SAITM’s founder Dr. Neville Fernando’s to produce quality non-state doctors will continue despite enormous opposition from various political and other parties with vested interests.”