Sri Lanka Approves Major University Infrastructure Drive Under 2026–2030 Investment Plan

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a series of large-scale infrastructure projects aimed at modernizing facilities across state universities in Sri Lanka. Sixteen development proposals—submitted under the Ministry of Education, Higher Education, and Professional Education—have been incorporated into the government’s Investment Plan 2026–2030, following recommendations from the Department of National Planning.

Presented by the Prime Minister in her capacity as Minister of Education, the initiative focuses on upgrading academic, residential, and research facilities to align Sri Lanka’s universities with international standards. The projects will be rolled out between 2025 and 2030, based on the specific needs of each institution and academic program.

Approved Projects and Estimated Costs

• Construction and completion of a Professorial Unit for the Faculty of Medicine, including equipment – Rs. 3,594.14 million
• New hostel facilities for university students – Rs. 26,625 million
• Renovation of hostels at the University of Peradeniya – Rs. 2,452 million
• Wastewater purification unit for the Vavuniya University hostel – Rs. 219 million
• New building for the Faculty of Business Studies, University of Moratuwa – Rs. 1,309.42 million
• Multi-purpose building for Dental Health Sciences and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura – Rs. 3,419.38 million
• Expansion of Civil & Environmental Engineering facilities, including Heavy Structures and Coastal Engineering labs, University of Ruhuna – Rs. 1,453.97 million
• Professorial Unit at Batticaloa Teaching Hospital for Eastern University – Rs. 2,279 million
• Upgrading cafeteria of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Vavuniya – Rs. 64 million
• Expansion of student cafeteria complex, Faculty of Dental Hygiene, University of Peradeniya – Rs. 100 million
• Construction of a medical center for Vavuniya University – Rs. 45 million
• Two-storey building for Vavuniya University – Rs. 474 million
• Laboratories, workshops, and lecture halls for the Faculty of Technology, Uva Wellassa University – Rs. 649.80 million
• Laboratory complex for the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya – Rs. 405 million
• Laboratory complex for the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Ruhuna – Rs. 2,342 million
• Six-storey building for the Faculty of Management Studies, Open University of Sri Lanka – Rs. 885.80 million

These developments mark one of the most extensive higher-education infrastructure investments undertaken in Sri Lanka, with the goal of enhancing student learning environments, expanding academic capacity, and strengthening the country’s overall higher-education system.