Colombo (News 1st): Heavy traffic congestion was reported close to Presidential Secretariat due to 3 protests staged citing several demands. Those representing Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and Training Project Assistants joined the protests. More than 1500 students of Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education staged the protest close to the Presidential Secretariat, demanding to bring the institute under the purview of the Ministry of Higher Education. Protesters who marched from the Viharamahadevi Park, handed over a list of demands to authorities which include, increasing the Mahapola Scholarship instalment and ensuring the right of the Higher National Diploma students to study until the degree qualification. Although an invitation for a discussion was extended to the students protesting opposite the Presidential Secretariat, the protest ended without a solution.

CPC Employees protest

A group of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation employees who were terminated from employment, staged a protest, demanding to reinstate them in their jobs. They arrived at the Presidential Secretariat today, for the 7th day. Although they were promised a solution today, the protesters staged the protest following failed discussions with the subject minister.

Project assistants stage a protest

Another group of project assistants staged a protest, citing that they have not been given jobs even after appointment letters have been given to them. Although an invitation was extended to hold talks, the protesters were told a solution will be given in 3 hours. The protesters remained on the premises, anticipating a solution. Meanwhile, a separate location has been named and reserved for protests at the Galle Face Green.