The Sectoral Oversight Committee on Education, Manpower and Human Capital recently reviewed how private universities function in Sri Lanka, especially whether they are properly recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

At the meeting held recently under the chairmanship of Hesha Withanage, the Committee expressed concern over a growing number of institutions issuing degrees of questionable quality. It was emphasized that some of these institutions appear to prioritise profit over delivering genuine, high-quality education.

Members argued that the entire cycle, from admitting students to awarding degrees, must remain strictly regulated under UGC oversight, to guarantee legitimacy and academic standards.

During the discussion, the vice-chair of the UGC urged the establishment of a dedicated Higher Education Commission. This envisioned body would monitor private universities and other degree-awarding institutions, maintain comprehensive data, and create connections with global universities, thereby helping ensure that new private institutions meet high quality and regulatory standards.

In addition, the Committee also touched on related issues, such as state universities, foreign-degree scholarships, and broader higher-education concerns.