FUTA warns of union action after failed talks with Prime Minister

The Federation of University Teachers’ Association (FUTA) has threatened escalated trade union action following unsuccessful negotiations with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya regarding the state university system crisis.

During a meeting at the Education Ministry in Battaramulla, FUTA representatives raised critical issues including delayed student admissions, extended study periods, and a significant shortage of academic staff. The association noted that difficulties in recruiting and retaining qualified academics continue to undermine the system.

FUTA leadership expressed frustration that proposals submitted by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Committee of Vice Chancellors to expedite admissions have not yet reached the Presidential Secretariat. FUTA officials stated that no agreements were reached during the talks and accused the government of insufficient interest in resolving these long-standing issues, which have persisted for nearly a year.