Eliminate Toxic Political Influence from the University System
President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of eliminating threatening politics from the university system to allow students to pursue their education freely. He highlighted the necessity of restructuring the university system and turning the country’s schools and universities into formal educational institutions without any disruptions.
President Wickremesinghe made these remarks at an event to inaugurate the University of Science and Technology in the Poonani area of Batticaloa. During the ceremony, he unveiled a plaque and officially handed over the new university to the students. He also toured the facility and interacted with the students.
Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding was exchanged between the university administration and higher education institutions in Sri Lanka in the presence of President Wickremesinghe. To commemorate the occasion, a commemorative stamp was launched to celebrate the establishment of the University of Science and Technology as a student-owned institution.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe further remarked,
“I first met Mr. Hezbollah in 1985. Today, he has established this international university, focusing on technology and science. The university aims to equip our children with knowledge in these fields.
The government’s objective is to advance science and technology in our nation. It is essential to have skilled individuals in these areas, making this university vital for our country’s progress.
President Wickremesinghe commended Mr. Hezbollah for his contributions to the region and emphasized the importance of non-profit educational institutions like this new university. He also addressed the challenges faced by universities today, underscoring the need to ensure free and uninterrupted education for students.
President Wickremesinghe highlighted the significance of reorganizing the university system to eliminate political interference and allow students to freely choose their courses. He expressed his vision of establishing more universities like this in the future.
Furthermore, plans to establish an educational institution in honour of Mr. Lalith Athulathmudali and launch four new educational institutions were also mentioned by President Wickremesinghe.
Founder of the Batticaloa International University of Science and Technology, Dr. M. L. A. M. Hezbollah,
expressed gratitude to the President for inaugurating the university and emphasized its accessibility to children of all backgrounds. He praised President Wickremesinghe’s efforts in rebuilding the nation during a previous crisis.
The event was attended by various dignitaries, including religious leaders, Governors of Eastern and Northern Provinces, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and other officials, along with teaching staff, students, and local residents.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the need to eliminate threatening politics from the university system to allow students to pursue education freely. He inaugurated the University of Science and Technology in Batticaloa, highlighting the importance of transforming schools and universities into formal educational institutions without disruption. A Memorandum of Understanding was exchanged, and a commemorative stamp was launched to celebrate the establishment of the university. Dr. M. L. A. M. Hezbollah, the founder, expressed gratitude to the President and highlighted the university’s accessibility to all children. Attendees included religious leaders, government officials, and students. Wickremesinghe’s efforts in rebuilding the nation were also recognized.
