Due to Trade Union Fight SAITM Cannot be Closed– Kiriella

SAITM is a recognized educational institution, as per an Appeal Court order and cannot be abolished, Minister of Higher Education Lakshman Kiriella said  the media yesterday (3). He added that going against a Court Order would be considered contempt of Court.

Commenting on the recent developments connected to the SAITM issue, the minister stated that the President had summoned three meetings but the Sri Lanka Medical Council (SLMC) had not attended any of them citing the appeal that has been lodged. He claimed that without attending these meetings, the SLMC is encouraging the students to boycott lectures. Although the government is ready to gazette minimum standards for the medical officers, the SLMC was not cooperating with the initiative, An appeal has been lodged in the Supreme Court to overturn the Appeal Court Order and everyone ought to wait till the case is heard, the minister remarked. He added that protests and strikes cannot change a Court Order. While emphasizing that the free education in the country will be preserved, the minister also stressed on the necessity of private education.