In a significant move aimed at enriching Sri Lanka’s educational landscape, State Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Suren Raghavan, has announced comprehensive plans to introduce multiple degree programs through state universities. The initiative, unveiled during a press briefing at the Presidential Media Center on February 14th, is poised to revolutionize higher education in the country.
Drawing upon insights from leading international education experts, Dr. Raghavan outlined the blueprint, which includes the establishment of three international universities within Sri Lanka. Of these, two are currently in the developmental phase, while the third is slated to commence operations by May of this year.
According to reports from the President’s Media Division (PMD), the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology is set to be inaugurated in Kandy, while the other two universities will feature branches affiliated with esteemed institutions from the United States and the United Kingdom. Anticipated memorandum of understanding signings will solidify these partnerships, fostering academic excellence and collaboration on a global scale.
The establishment of the Higher Education Development Commission is also underway, a pivotal initiative integrating recommendations from the Wijedasa Rajapaksa Committee and the Committee Report of the University Grants Commission. Renowned former Chief Justice K. Sri Pawan has been appointed to helm this commission, tasked with formulating a robust legal framework to guide the nation’s higher education policies.
In addition to these reforms, discussions are ongoing to introduce multiple degree programs within state universities. The Australian Higher Education Minister, along with chancellors from esteemed institutions such as Melbourne and Sydney University, are set to visit Sri Lanka at the invitation of the Australian Embassy. Their visit aims to assess the educational landscape and chart the course for future collaborations.
Dr. Raghavan emphasized the importance of regulating the private higher education sector while unequivocally stating that there are no intentions to commercialize education. The focus remains squarely on elevating academic standards and expanding opportunities for students across Sri Lanka.
In summary, State Minister Dr. Suren Raghavan’s visionary initiatives promise to usher in a new era of excellence and innovation in Sri Lanka’s higher education sector, setting the stage for a brighter future for generations to come.
