Government to Crack Down on Campus Harassment, Says Prime Minister

COLOMBO (News 1st); Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has issued a strong call to end all forms of harassment, intimidation, criminal activity, and violence within Sri Lankan universities, pledging that the government is prepared to take maximum action to ensure student safety and dignity.

Speaking during a dialogue held at the University of Jaffna with the Vice Chancellor, academic and non-academic staff, and students, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of creating a secure and respectful environment for higher education.

She said that it is essential that university students enjoy their freedom with discipline, adding that their rights must not be unnecessarily restricted, but neither should they be abused.

Each year, around 40,000 students enter state universities after passing the Advanced Level examinations. The Prime Minister stressed that universities must take full responsibility for ensuring these students receive proper security, welfare, and educational support.

She further highlighted the need for universities to evolve beyond traditional degree programs and become research-driven institutions that offer quality postgraduate education, helping students build confidence in their future.