Successful discussion held between university teachers and Minister Basil

There have been indications that the University crisis will be soon resolved with the crucial talks held in this connection yesterday.
Another round of talks is scheduled for tomorrow. The Government has intervened again to protect the right to education of hundreds of thousands of students. A discussion was held at the Ministry of Economic Development under the patronage of Economic Development Minister until last night due to this reason. Senior government officials and the leaders of the Federation of University Teachers Association including Nirmal Ranjith Devasiri participated in the discussion. The discussion has paved the way to enter into several agreements. Nirmal Ranjith Devasiri said that the meeting scheduled for tomorrow will be a crucial point in ending the strike. He said that the initial discussions were held in a fruitful manner. He said that they had entered into an agreement to end the strike action at the discussion held on 31st August. He said that the Minister gave them an assurance based on that agreement. He said that they need to meet Financial Secretary P.B. Jayasundare tomorrow to discuss about the salaries. It is expected to be held on Monday. If it will be successful it is likely that a decision will be made to end the strike.
Secretary of the Federation of University Teachers Association Terrence Madhujith said that Minister Basil Rajapaksa is working with commitment to bring a solution to the problem. He said that therefore they are confident of finding a solution and it is due to that confidence they attend the discussion.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa speaking after the discussion said that their objective is to end the university teachers’ crisis in a manner that would provide maximum benefits to the country. The Minister said that he is participating as a mediator. Therefore he would like to maintain silence until the final decision is made. He said he is working on behalf of the government with the President’s approval.