Universities re-open with strict security measures
View(s):Universities have re-opened after the Easter Sunday bombings disrupted Primary and Higher Education activities.
Security has been beefed up in campuses with the introduction of a pass system for vehicles and motorcycles and establishment of vigilance committees among students. Most campuses have either resumed academic activities or have drawn plans to resume lectures in the up coming few weeks.
Police and armed guards have been placed outside universities, while Marshals have stepped up security within them.
University of Peradeniya (UoP) Vice Chancellor Prof Upul B. Dissanayake told the Education Times they have stepped up security by deploying an additional 150 security personnel.
He said, instead of the previous system where students could enter from almost any of the locations, the authorities have now restricted entrance from selected places, while the other open areas are being guarded by police and security personnel.
He said they have also restricted students from carrying backpacks, while requesting them to use transparent bags.
The UoP commenced its academic programmes by opening the Agriculture and Allied Health Services. Medical, final year Veterinary students and all 1st year Engineering students and 2nd year Computer Engineering students commenced academic activities on Tuesday, while the Faculties of Arts, Management and Science for all students commenced on Wednesday. The Dental Sciences Faculty commences tomorrow.
At the University of Colombo (UoC), Faculty of Management & Finance Head Dr M.P.P. Dharmadasa said the UoC too has implemented additional security precautions, including restricting student entry only from main entrances.
He said they have requested students to reduce the number of bags they carry and also avoid spending time unnecessary in the university, after completing lectures.
“In the hostels, records are being maintained of visitors, while awareness programmes are being held to educate students on security precautions,” he said.
Police and Security Forces personnel are stationed outside, while Marshals conduct checks on identity cards. Vehicles will be allowed entry only on a pass system.
- Damith Wickremasekara