This programme has been introduced by the Ministry of Higher Education in a military environment under the leadership of the Ministry of Defence. According to the letter sent to students they may be offered a place in the national university system and will be expected to produce a certificate of completion which suggests that it is compulsory. The decision in the Supreme Court dismissing, without stating reasons, all the petitions against the programme, has made it all the more important to have a public discussion on its relevance and impact on the university system. The Friday Forum expresses its deep concern in regard to both the manner in which this programme has been developed and implemented, and the very concept of such leadership training outside the university system.
Leadership Training for University Entrants
Trade Union Action of University Lecturers
Academic activities in four universities of Sri Lanka have been disrupted due to the trade union action of the university teachers.
The academic activities are deteriorating since a large number of university teachers resigned from the positions of section head since the 9th of June.
The academic work of Peradeniya, Ruhuna, Sri Jayewardenepura, and Jaffna universities have been severely affected due to the trade union action by the university teachers.
The strike affected the medical faculty of Peradeniya University whilst the medical faculty of the Sri Jayewardenepura University remained functioning since the teachers there were not members of the Federation of University Teachers' Association, the trade union that is taking union action.