Selection process of Sabaragamuwa University VC Dons raise concerns over irregularities

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda   

Several candidates including senior professors who applied for the post of Vice Chancellor at Sabaragamuwa University have brought to the attention of President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Chairman of University Grants Commission the irregularities that occurred during the selection process for the post of university Vice Chancellor, sources told Daily Mirror.   

Several parties have expressed their dissatisfaction over the reports of irregularities during the selection process and they firmly maintained that the allegations should be thoroughly investigated to ensure transparency and fairness in the appointment of such a critical position within a university.   

The sources said certain members of the council, particularly some faculty Deans and senate representatives, appear to have willfully manipulated the candidates’ scores to favour the inclusion of particular candidates, seemingly lesser-qualified individuals in the shortlist. 

It is alleged that the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity were not upheld during the selection process.   

Meanwhile, a power interruption had occurred immediately before the gathering and finalisation of marks got started and lasted until the marking was finished. The university administration had not made any backup plans or other contingency procedures to deal with the potential for an electrical outage during this crucial council meeting. This lack of planning led to concerns about possible attempts to manipulate the marking and finalising of marks procedures in the absence of adequate control.   

Accordingly, several candidates called upon the authorities to reselect the candidates’ names in a manner that ensures fairness for all candidates.