The report prepared for the establishment of the National Higher Education Development Commission (NHEDC), aimed at replacing the University Grants Commission (UGC), has been submitted to the Education Ministry.

State Minister of Higher Education, Suren Raghavan revealed that the report prepared by the committee chaired by former Chief Justice K. Sripavan was submitted to the ministry, on Tuesday (Mar 26).

He further stated that upon thorough examination of the report, the establishment of the National Higher Education Development Commission (NHEDC) could be accomplished within this year.

“I must emphasize that this institution is crucial for the transformation of the university system in our country,” the State Minister said. 

State Minister Raghavan made the revelation while addressing a press briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre yesterday. 

“Regarding the years 2021-2022, I want to clarify that students who have passed their Advanced Level Examination have been successfully enrolled in 17 universities. Despite reports suggesting otherwise, I have the necessary documents to confirm that the student recruitment process for those years has been conducted as per schedule, and any claims stating otherwise are false.

“Additionally, there have been challenges in the previous season where final year students from certain universities are facing delays in completing their studies. This is compounded by a reduction in classroom facilities required for lectures and practical sessions. However, we have devised solutions to address these issues. We have acquired a building owned by the Mahaweli Authority in Ratmalana, as well as several government-owned buildings in the Kelaniya area. We anticipate that these problems will be resolved promptly once the renovations on these buildings are completed,” he added.