The National Task Force to prevent all forms of violence, including ragging, in universities recently held discussions with student representatives from all state universities, marking a significant step towards creating safer campuses.

According to Deputy Minister of Education Madhura Senevirathna, the meeting was convened to gather students’ views and suggestions on strengthening efforts to eradicate ragging within the university system. During the discussion, student representatives expressed their willingness to support government initiatives aimed at completely eliminating ragging from higher education institutions.

The meeting was conducted as part of the broader consultative process for formulating a National Education Policy. It was attended by Deputy Minister Senevirathna, members of the task force, senior officials from the University Grants Commission, and student representatives from across the country.

In parallel, a committee appointed under the ‘Ratama Ekata’ national anti-narcotics programme also met with student representatives to address the issue of illegal drug use on university campuses. Committee members briefed students on preventive measures and highlighted the role they can play in supporting peers and preventing drug-related incidents.

The Deputy Minister stated that action plans addressing both ragging and drug abuse were developed following these discussions, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive university environment.