55 New Hostels Approved To Address University Hostel Shortage

COLOMBO (News 1st): The Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said approval has now been granted to construct 55 new university hostels, including at the University of Peradeniya.

Explaining the issue of university hostel facilities in Parliament today, Prime Minister Dr.Harini Amarasuriya stated that no new university hostel had been built in Sri Lanka for nearly 10 to 15 years, following a policy decision taken in 2015 not to construct hostels for university students. 

She said the current government has taken steps to change that policy, despite the number of university students having almost doubled without a corresponding increase in hostel facilities or academic staff.

She made these remarks while responding to a question raised by Samagi Jana Balawegaya MP Chamindrani Kiriella.

She said priority will initially be given to universities outside the main urban areas, where students face greater difficulties in finding private accommodation.

She added that funds have also been allocated to renovate existing facilities at the University of Peradeniya.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya further said the highest-ever allocation for education was made for 2025 and 2026, and expressed confidence that a similar allocation would be made for 2027.