Abstract:
Ragging is a deep-seated long-lasting social practice found in the state university system of Sri
Lanka. Considering the negative, damaging impacts on physical, psychological, social,
cognitive and behavioural aspects of undergraduates, it has been identified as a punishable
offence under the Prohibition of Ragging and other forms of violence in educational
institutions Act, No. 20 of 1998. Despite the array of harmful effects, ragging has evolved
during the past five decades and sustained thus far amidst severe punishments imposed. The
objective of the current study was to identify the underlying deep-rooted reasons behind
sustenance of ragging in state universities with reference to a selected university in western
province, Sri Lanka. In-depth interviews were conducted with a heterogeneous sample (n=20)
of volunteers. The study exposed an interconnected feeding system comprised of a minority
of significant personnel among freshers, seniors, student unions, staff, administration, industry
and political parties who play a decisive role in justifying the need and thereby support the
sustenance of ragging. These findings may enable university authorities to find creative and
innovative solutions to combat this menace to create a conducive academic environment for
the future student community of State Universities in Sri Lanka.
