The Hon. Nimal Palihena

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, as a Government we have a great responsibility to guide university education in a positive direction. Students entering universities after A/Ls carry expectations about their professional futures. The State runs 17 universities regulated by the UGC; 17 non-state universities are also regulated. While we responsibly regulate higher education providers, we now bring this Amendment.

¶ 02 In our NPP Government policy statement, we discussed actions ahead, focusing on two core clauses: appointments of Deans and HoDs. Sections 49 and 51 of the 1978 Act provide for appointments, but issues have emerged that have adversely affected students, including in completing their degrees. Therefore, by amending Section 49, we broaden eligibility for Deans—from only serving HoDs to all academic staff from Professor down to Senior Lecturer Grade I. This expands opportunities and brings capable, willing, and engaged individuals into leadership.

¶ 03 We also fix term limits: three-year terms, renewable once—preventing indefinite tenures that stifle institutional function and concentrate power in cliques exerting pressure, leading to dysfunction. The Council will have the power to remove, with due process—this Bill does not speak of arbitrary removal.

¶ 04 Opposition claims VC appointments are political. Historically, Councils recommend and the President appoints on UGC advice. We are open to future reforms to enhance independence. Regarding HoD appointments, Section 51 vests power in the VC. Past experience shows VCs approving only preferred names. This Bill shifts that power to the Council—the apex administrative and academic decision-making body—ensuring awareness, transparency, and fairness. Eligible academics from Professor to Senior Lecturer Grade II may offer themselves, and appointments will be made with Council oversight.

¶ 05 These changes expand pathways for progression across academic staff and reduce coercion or undue influence, since discretionary VC power is checked by the Council. We aim to provide equal opportunities across society—not a narrow elite. That is why we are reforming to broaden access to professional and academic education. If there are shortcomings, point them out—that is valuable—but these reforms must proceed. We have not reversed them. Grade 1 has commenced under the new reforms, and printing modules, teacher training, and resource development are underway. We will continue to refine as needed to take the country forward. Thank you.