Decision on private unis should be made considering country’s best interests: President

A decision on the establishment of private universities in the country will only be made after discussions with all stakeholders, President Maithripala Sirisena said on Monday.

Speaking with the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine (SAITM) Parents’ Association and Dr. Neville Fernando on the prevailing issues regarding private medical schools on Monday, Sirisena highlighted that any decision concerning the matter should be well mapped out to ensure the country was able to benefit, while safeguarding the people’s interests. 

“I have already discussed this matter with the Government Medical Officers’ Association and the Government Dental Surgeons’ Association. I will also discuss it with the University Grants Commission and the Medical Council,” the President said.

Dr. Neville Fernando as well as the members of the SAITM Parents’ Association expressed their views on this issue and the student representatives also conveyed their ideas and proposals during the meeting.

The President further stated that he would take the ideas presented by all parties into careful consideration. 

He added that he would pay special attention to the concerns expressed by the Sri Lankan student community.