Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya said the government will not take action to restrict student freedom and called on student unions to support efforts to end violence and ragging linked to student activities.

She said a committee will be appointed to formulate a national policy on medical education, following requests from student unions. The Prime Minister invited unions to submit proposals and views for consideration in drafting the policy.

She made the remarks during a discussion held Feb. 27 at Temple Trees with members of the Medical Faculty Students’ Action Committee.

During the meeting, student representatives outlined issues faced by university students. The Prime Minister said discussions would also be held with university vice-chancellors.

Health Ministry officials said delays in internship training for medical graduates are mainly due to accommodation shortages. They said approval has been sought to allocate five additional hospitals to expand internship opportunities.

Officials from the Education Ministry said funds have been allocated to construct new hostel facilities at the Universities of Wayamba, Sabaragamuwa and Moratuwa, as well as in Kurunegala and Kuliyapitiya, with construction to begin after land allocations are finalized.

Transportation difficulties faced by medical graduates training in Kurunegala and Kuliyapitiya were also discussed, with plans to hold talks with the Sri Lanka Transport Board.

Officials further said no decision has been taken to suspend post-intern appointments.

The discussion was attended by Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, Chairman of the University Grants Commission Senior Professor Kapila Senevirathne, ministry officials and members of the Medical Faculty Students’ Action Committee, including its convener Navodya Marasinghe. (Newswire)

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