A concerning trend has emerged as more than 800 university lecturers have left Sri Lanka in the current year, according to statements from Senior Lecturer Charudaththe Illangasinghe, the spokesperson for the Federation of University Teachers’ Associations. Additionally, nearly 1,000 more lecturers are currently overseas on leave.
This exodus has had a profound impact on academic activities within the country’s universities, with Senior Lecturer Charudaththe Illangasinghe highlighting the severe disruptions caused by the departure of such a significant number of academic professionals.
At the beginning of the year, Sri Lankan universities were supported by approximately 6,200 university lecturers. However, the ongoing departure of lecturers and the absence of those on leave have created a critical situation, leading to a substantial shortage in the academic workforce.
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Senior Lecturer Charudaththe Illangasinghe noted that the recruitment of new lecturers for universities has come to a standstill, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the academic institutions. The current scenario raises concerns about the potential long-term effects on the quality of education and research within Sri Lankan universities.
