The City University programme commenced keeping another promise made in the national policy framework “Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour”, a statement from the President’s Media Division (PMD) said.
Its first university is planned to be established in the next few weeks, in Pinnawala area in Kegalle District.
As the foremost step of the programme President Gotabaya Rajapaksa launched the official website (www.cu.ac.lk) to introduce the City university Programme as a concept at the Presidential Secretariat this morning (15) to coincide with the World Youth Skills Day – 2021.
The City universities will be established covering all districts with the aim of producing talented graduates equipped with the cutting edge technology, targeting the job market.
80% of those who qualify for tertiary education at the GCE Advanced Level milestone do not get opportunity to enter universities. Only those who are financially blessed will have the privilege to pursue their further studies at private institutes or abroad. The President expects to offer a degree compatible for the job market to the talented and capable students who have passed the Advanced Level and yet lack the financial support they need through the City University programme.
The programme specializes in formulating degree programmes based on a curriculum specific to each district as well as local and global job markets. Dr. Seetha Arambepola, State Minister of Skills Development, Vocational Education, Research and Innovation noted that a citizen empowered with knowledge and professionalism will leave the university following their graduation.
Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth & Sports and State Minister of Digital Technology and Enterprise Development revealed that youth unemployment fell as low as 4% in 2014 but has risen to 16% by 2019.
