30 new degree programs introduced:

Varsity intake increased by 10 %

By Isuri Kaviratne

The student intake for universities has been increased by 10 percent this year and around 30 new degree programs have been introduced, University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairman Prof. Mohan de Silva said.

The student intake for the academic year 2015/16 would be 27,603 after the 10 percent increase and the UGC hopes to continue increasing the student intake by 10 per cent annually..

Referring to the new degree programs, he said the UGC will follow a diversification process by introducing the new courses to match the employment demands and create new opportunities.

The new programs include 24 degree courses at 12 universities in engineering and technology which consist of BA in Engineering Technology, BA in Bio Technology and BA in Information and Communication Technology.

The other courses are: BA in Teaching English as a Second Language at the University of Kelaniya, BA in Physics and Electronics at Kelaniya University, BSc in Physics and ICT at Sri Jayewardenapura University, Food Business Management at Sabaragamuwa University and Marine and Fresh Water Sciences at Ruhuna University.

"The subjects are linked in an innovative way diversifying conventional degrees to provide better opportunities for students. The diversification will be further carried out next year," the Chairman said that adding that programs to improve soft skills will be introduced for leadership, problem identification and problem-solving.