No Ban on Student Politics, Says Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya

05-Aug-2025

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Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Higher Education, and Vocational Training, Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, has assured that student protests and political activities in universities will not be prohibited.

However, she made it clear that violence, ragging, and harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

She made these comments during a dialogue with university lecturers, administrators, and students after inaugurating the newly constructed library building at the University of Vavuniya on August 3, 2025. 

Following the unveiling of the commemorative plaque, the Prime Minister toured the new facilities and listened to students' concerns.

In her remarks, she stated that the government’s vision is to develop universities that produce globally competent graduates and foster research and postgraduate programs that benefit the nation and the world. 

While access to university education has expanded, she acknowledged that academic quality has not kept pace. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that university graduates are fully prepared for the global workforce and that universities must stop compensating for the failures of the school system.

Efforts are underway to implement new education reforms to address these foundational issues. She reiterated that the government will not impose any restrictions on student activism conducted peacefully, but will also not tolerate violence or actions that disrupt the academic community. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing the infrastructure necessary for quality higher education.