Steps to increase annual intake of SLIATE students: Minister

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

Steps would be taken to increase the annual intake of students to the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education (SLIATE) up to 30,000, State Minister of Technology and Innovation Thilanga Sumathipala said.  

He commented that currently, only 10,000 students are enrolled to the 19 higher technological institutions  island wide.   

He made these remarks after an inspection visit to the Sri Lanka Institute of Advanced Technological Education in Jaffna.  
“The government is looking to increase the number up to 30,000.  Steps will also be taken to allocate more funds to develop the infrastructure facilities of these institutions,” the minister said.  

He stated that relevant action will also be taken to award degree status to several selected courses being conducted at these institutions, and that a strategic development plan would be formulated and implemented targeting the next 3 years.  

Secretary to the State Ministry Chinthaka Lokuhetti and officials of the SLIATE also took part in this supervisory visit.