The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA), in a letter addressed to the Secretary to the President, has opposed the government’s plans to permit fee levying MBBS degrees at the Medical Faculty attached to the Kotelawala Defence University.

GMOA spokesman Dr. Chamil Wijesinghe said the decision by the President to give permission, through a Cabinet paper, was an arbitrary act. “We have sought a clarification from the Secretary to the President. This is an arbitrary decision. If the government plans to offer MBBS degrees for money, then it should speak to all other stakeholders before reaching a decision to permit such a project.

“In addition, we have asked for clarification on qualifications stipulated for this degree programme,” Dr. Wijesinghe said.