The Hon. Ruwan Mapalagama

¶ 01 Madam Presiding Member, given the discussion, let me outline some technical points.

¶ 02 “Āchārya” historically meant “teacher,” as inscriptions show—e.g., “Hasti Āchārya” (elephant master), “Dunu Āchārya” (archery master). Today, “Doctor” (PhD) is an academic qualification following BA and MA/M.Phil.

¶ 03 In a typical Arts Faculty, one obtains: - BA (General 3-year or Special 4-year); - MA (one- or two-year); - M.Phil; - PhD (Doctor of Philosophy), awarded on original research.

¶ 04 Within universities, no one can use “Professor” without a PhD plus further requirements: experience, scholarly books, journal publications and a points threshold (e.g., 105+), with final approval by the relevant Professorial Board.

¶ 05 As Minister Abayarathna explained, after retirement, using “Doctor” is fine, but “Professor” requires Council approval as Professor Emeritus. Separately, universities may confer honorary doctorates on distinguished contributors in arts, sciences or public service after rigorous Council processes.

¶ 06 If this Motion is in good faith, note that the Ministry of Education under the Prime Minister and Minister Susil Premajayantha (current portfolio holder named in debate as Maj. Amarasekara by OCR error) and Deputy Minister (Dr.) Madhura Senevirathna is already working through subcommittees to regulate institutions that purport to award degrees and honorifics—including those selling “Deshabandhu,” “Deshashakthi” or similar titles for small sums. I support expanding regulation beyond “Doctor/Professor” to include titles like Attorney-at-Law if misused.

¶ 07 Thank you.