The Samagi Jana Balawegaya accuses the government of attempting to create a network of private universities by passing the General Sir John Kotelawala National Defence University Draft Bill.
Speaking at a media briefing, Parliamentarian Lakshman Kiriella said the management of this university network will also be vested with the Kotelawala Defence University.
MP Kiriella said the draft bill will enable the establishment of private universities in all parts of the country.
He recalled that during the term of the good governance government, efforts to continue the South Asian Institute of Technology and Medicine or SAITM, were opposed by the then opposition adding that students were left stranded and protests were staged.
MP Kiriella also claimed that suspicions have arisen over the Council of Management following the passing of the KDU bill.
He noted that university boards comprise of graduates and PHD holders, adding that the council will 80% comprise of military personnel.
He claimed that those part of the military do not require degrees, thereby questioning their qualifications.
The MP stated this is a mere attempt to disrupt free education
