University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo closed due to dengue

Deputy Minister of Education Dr. Madura Senewiratne stated that steps have been taken to temporarily close the University of Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo, due to the rapid spread of dengue fever within the university. Accordingly, the university, which was closed effective from the 30th of last month, is scheduled to reopen on the 13th of next month.

During this period, authorities have decided to postpone all academic activities, as well as examinations and tests, at the university, and student hostels will also be completely closed.

The primary reason for the sudden closure of the university is the confirmation that thirty-six students studying there have contracted dengue fever, and the identification that several other students are suffering from fever. The Deputy Minister further explained that this decision was taken as an urgent measure to control the further spread of the disease, in accordance with the advice and recommendations provided by the health authorities.

Two hostels belonging to this university are located in Rajagiriya and Dehiwala, and the Ministry of Education has been informed by health authorities that the spread of dengue fever has increased in the surrounding areas outside these hostels. For this reason, with the closure of the university, health authorities have immediately launched a special mosquito control program focusing on the relevant hostel premises and the adjacent surrounding areas.

When inquired about this, Professor Rohan Nethsinghe, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Visual and Performing Arts, stated that health officials had informed him about the rapid spread of dengue and other viral fevers among students. He said that considering this situation, the university was closed for the safety of the students. Furthermore, the Vice-Chancellor had a lengthy discussion with the heads of the University Grants Commission on the 1st of last month regarding this serious situation that has arisen within the university and the future steps to be taken.