The University Grants Commission (UGC) has urged members of striking non-academic trade unions to return to work and support the commencement of academic activities at universities.
UGC Chairman Prof. Sampath Amaratunge stated that he has communicated the government’s stance on the demands of non-academic staff, which include issues related to salaries and allowances. He emphasized that continued disruption of the university system could delay the graduation of approximately 150,000 students.
However, Co-Chairman of the University Trade Union Joint Committee, Dhammika S. Priyantha, responded that appointing committees instead of addressing their demands is ineffective. As a result, the non-academic staff strike will continue for its 28th day.
