• Chinese University authorities have already consented

By Sandun A. Jayasekera 

The Higher Education Ministry was seriously considering permitting Sri Lankan students who are studying in foreign Universities but unable to go back mainly due to the current dollar crunch to study in Sri Lanka for one year, Education and Higher Education Minister Dinesh Gunawardana said yesterday.  

“I expect to discuss this issue with relevant stakeholders like the UGC, the University heads, Higher Education Ministry officials, students and their parents before taking a final decision,” Minister Gunawardana told Daily Mirror. 
He admitted that the government will have to do something to alleviate the difficulties faced by Sri Lankan students who have been kind of stranded after returning home from their foreign educational establishments. 

The Chinese University authorities have already consented to the proposal to let Sri Lankan undergrads of Chinese Universities resume their studies in Sri Lanka if they cannot return to their respective Universities, Minister Gunawardana added. 
There are thousands of Sri Lankan students who follow study courses in foreign Universities but are unable to go back after coming home due to COVID-19 pandemic for family events or on vacation. They are desperate to return and resume their studies at their respective seats of education. But health issues and foreign currency shortage has held them back,” Minister Gunawardana noted. 

After the completion of studies in Sri Lanka for one year which we believe Sri Lanka would be out of the woods from foreign currency shortage and health threats by then, they can go back to their respective Universities, he said. 

“These students could study online or otherwise arrangements have to be made to hold classes - lectures for them at National Universities. I expect to take a final decision on this matter in the next few days,” Minister Gunawardana stressed.