In a recent meeting held on August 24th, 2023, the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) in Sri Lanka summoned representatives from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura to discuss the progress of a critical initiative.
Earlier this year, on March 24th, COPE had recommended that the University of Sri Jayewardenepura develop a National Strategic Plan aimed at modernizing the entire public university system in the country. The responsibility was entrusted to the university due to its strong reputation for effective management.
Senior Prof. Pathmalal M. Manage, Vice Chancellor of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Mr. Nihal Ranasingha, Secretary to the Ministry of Education, and Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunga, Chairman of the University Grants Commission, along with other key figures, were in attended the meeting.
Senior Professor Disa Bandara emphasized that the unique circumstances of each university should be considered in developing the strategic plan.
The Committee expressed concerns about the university system’s challenges, including a shortage of professors and non-academic staff. The Chairman of the University Grants Commission highlighted the need to recruit more professors, especially amidst the economic crisis in the country.
Additionally, the COPE Chair suggested that around 50% of universities should transition into research-focused institutions to enhance the quality of education.
The Committee instructed the Ministry of Education to establish a task force within two weeks to address these issues, as the stability of the university system is of paramount importance.
The meeting was attended by several State Ministers and Members of Parliament, underscoring the significance of this endeavor to revamp the Sri Lankan education system.
Image Source : lankanewsweb
