Hugging on campus not prohibited: VC

By Suranga Rajanayaka   

Vice Chancellor of Peradeniya University Prof. D.M.Lamawansa stressed that having love affairs in the University was not a taboo but any excesses could not be allowed.   

Referring to criticism on social media regarding university administration’s lax stand on a recent incident where a couple were seen hugging near the senate house, he said Peradeniya University would not prohibit loving.   

Prof. Lamawansa said more than 13,000 students studied in the resplendent and picturesque university campus situated on 1700 acres of land and that he would not restrict their rights and freedom in any manner.   

“ My object is to protect and uphold the rights of the students and to enhance their mental health. Students and teachers suffered a fair share of the consequences of the Corona pandemic and the prevailing economic crisis followed by agitations. With this in view I allow them to work as a harmonious group with sound mental conditions. They are free to frequent 1500 roads all over the campus,” he said   

The Vice Chancellor further said hugging had not been prohibited in the campus but they would know its limits not to embarrass their parents and many other visitors including school children on educational tours to the campus.   Deputy Vice Chancellor Terrance Madurajith, and Public Relations Officer Mahesh Abeywickrama were present at the occasion.