May 15, Colombo (LNW): The Joint Committee of University Trade Unions has announced a further escalation of their strike action, citing prolonged delays in addressing their grievances.
Co-Chairman Dhammika S. Priyantha declared that the association has unanimously agreed to intensify their protest by withdrawing from all voluntary services within universities. This includes suspending the supply of water, electricity, and internet facilities, effectively disrupting various operations across the university system.
Priyantha emphasized the need for authorities to take accountability for the destruction of samples maintained in university laboratories, attributing such occurrences to governmental actions. He warned that unless the administration addresses their concerns, the committee will reassess their voluntary activities within universities.
In response, Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunge, chairman of the University Grants Commission, called upon all employees to prioritize their responsibilities and focus on educating students amidst the ongoing turmoil.
The decision to escalate the strike underscores the growing frustration among university trade unions over unresolved issues, signaling a potential impasse between academic staff and authorities.
