The initiative will be carried out in three phases and includes the development of hostel facilities at 13 universities and several other higher education establishments.
Under the programme, the largest number of hostel projects has been allocated to Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka and Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, with seven hostels planned for each institution, providing accommodation for around 2,200 students respectively.
Meanwhile, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka is set to receive six new hostels with capacity for 2,000 students. Additional hostel facilities are also planned for Eastern University, Sri Lanka and Uva Wellassa University, accommodating approximately 1,600 and 1,800 students respectively.
Several other institutions, including University of Sri Jayewardenepura, University of Vavuniya, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, University of Jaffna, University of Moratuwa, University of Ruhuna, Gampaha Wickramarachchi University of Indigenous Medicine and the Trincomalee Campus, are also expected to benefit from the project.
According to the Ministry, the majority of the projects are currently undergoing tender, evaluation and procurement procedures, while initial construction work has already commenced at selected locations, including the University of Ruhuna.
