Lecturers from the Faculty of Arts at the University of Colombo have raised objections to proposed amendments to the Universities Act, alleging the changes would undermine the independence of academic leadership within state universities.
They say that the government has drafted amendments that would grant university senates the authority to appoint and remove deans and heads of departments.
They note that such powers could compromise academic autonomy, as senates are largely composed of government appointees.
Speaking to the media, Dr. Pavitra Jayawardena, a member of the faculty’s lecturers’ association, said the proposed changes raise serious concerns about the independence and impartiality of deans and department heads.
She warned that placing appointment and removal powers in the hands of senates could expose academic leadership to political influence.
The lecturers’ association also said it had not been informed or consulted about the proposed amendments, calling the move as a hurried initiative introduced during a period of national calamity.
They urged authorities to suspend the process until broader consultation can take place.
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