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Jayawardhanapura campus opening on Monday

by Manjula Fernando

The Sri Jayawardhanapura University closed for over two months after the killing of undergraduate Samantha Vithanage will be re-opened for freshers on Monday University Vice-Chancellor Dr. D.S. Epitawatte told a media conference yesterday.

"As we are confident of the adjustments made to security, hostels and student welfare, we decided to re-open the university from January 27" he said.

"Based on the students' response, we will be able to commence lectures for seniors by February 10-12," he said.

Mirihana police on the Vice Chancellor's request will set up a permanent police post comprising about 15 police officers under an Inspector's supervision.

"This will be set up close to the university to ensure quick reinforcement in a volatile situation," Dr. Epitawatte said.

Internal security will also be replaced by a professional and well- trained team of security guards from next month.

All students, teachers and staff will be issued a new identity card following the re-opening. This computerised colour photo ID will help identify students, their year and the faculty at a glance.

The men's hostel has been made a female hostel following allegations that this was a place where pro-violence students gathered. The male students will be relocated to an outside accommodation.

Dr. Epitawatte said: "We acquired three more houses close to the university to provide an additional 250 students with free university accommodation."

The hostellers, will be responsible for the room in future and will be liable to pay for any damage during the period of stay.

He refuted rumours that the administration is trying to curb student welfare and suppress their rights.

"Law and order has to be maintained within the university just like in any other place," he emphasised, saying they need police assistance to do so. "We want the university to produce future leaders not criminals," he added.

SSP Nugegoda Raja Weerakoon and SP Nugegoda M. Samaradivakara were also present.

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