211 ex-LTTE cadres pass in competitive exam to enter varsities

Two hundred and eleven candidates out of 360, who are still undergoing rehabilitation, sat for the advanced level examination and have passed all three subjects they appeared for.

"32 of the total ex caders sat for the exam failed in all three subjects in their respective streams," they said. Rehabilitation officials said they believe at least 40-50 students will be able to secure placements in universities. Sri Lanka's universities could accommodate 20,000 students out of up to 150,000 who qualify for higher education each year.

The competition has made the advanced level examination a barrier for higher education. Many middle class families send their children overseas including India for higher education.

It is estimated that Sri Lankans spend over USD 35 million annually to study overseas. Government has recently announced its intention to introduce private universities, the move triggered protests by students saying that it would put the free education in danger.