SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation Education: A Wider Perspective SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Consultant Editor: Prof. Ariyarathna Athugala
Editor: Harindranath Chandrasiri
Creative Team: Kamini Haputota Nanda Jayamanna Chandrika Gunasekara
Special Thanks: Governer, Northern Province and Staff Of the Northern Governer’s Office
Photographs: www.np.gov.lk
Design & Printing Layout by Media Tec Advertising & Printing Services
Published by: Research & Monitoring Division Department of Government Information, Sri Lanka
Printed by: 3 Department of Government Printing, Sri Lanka. Education: A Wider Perspective
“The Education sector needs significant changes at all levels to Education establish Sri Lanka as a Knowledge Hub. The Northern Province takes this opportunity to accomplish the national goal according to Resumed the “Mahinda Chinthana”.
Successfully The number of functional schools have been increased to 976 out of 1,047 to serve 255,136 students with 14,578 teachers in 2012. National programmes such as 1,000 schools and 5,000 feeder primary school programmes are being successfully implemented in the Province. The Child Friendly approach has been introduced in 500 schools. Mahindodaya Lab facilities have been provided to 90 schools in the Province. Infrastructure facilities are also continuously provided whenever the requirements are identified through various sources.
Therefore, the adult literacy rate has increased to 87% and the survival rate has also increased to 71% in 2012. Sports and cultural affairs are also included as sub sectors. Further to secondary and primary education, the higher education and tertiary and vocational education centers are also established in the province such as in the Northern Provincial Council University of Jaffna, the Vavuniya Campus of the University of Jaffna, 4 - Statistical Information 2013 the Open University of Sri Lanka, National Colleges of Education, Teacher Training Schools, Technical Colleges and Advanced Technical Institute being the main educational Institutions in the province”. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Schools 27 Schools were reopened in the Kilinochchi District on 4th January reopened at 2010. The ceremonial reopening KiIinochchi tookChandrasiri place at gracedKn/ Hindu the College. occation The as Governor, Northern Province, GA
the Chief Guest. The Government agent Kilinochchi Mrs. Rubavathi Ketheeswaran attended this ceremony as Guest of honour. The Secretary of Education in Northern Province, Mr. L. Ilaangovan attended this ceremony along with Provincial Ministries’ Secretaries, staff and the Additional Provincial Director of Education, Northern Province. At this function, educational materials, furniture and musical instruments were given to schools. Bicycles were distributed among the principals. The Governor, in his speech, appreciated the teachers who came from Jaffna to work in the Schools in Kilinochchi. He also made arrangements with the CTB to provide transport services to 5 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=343:education-in-vanni the teachers free of charge for one month. Education: A Wider Perspective Functioning Schools in the Northern Province Northern Province Total Area: 8,847.98 sq. km. District: 05 Provincial Council: 01 Total Population: 1,207,489 DS Division: 34 Local Authority : 34 (as at 30.06.2013)
Jaffna Tamil Medium 407 Tamil & English 36 Sinhala Medium 0
Mullaitivu Kilinochchi Tamil Medium 113 Tamil Medium 101 Tamil & English 0 Tamil & English 0 Sinhala Medium 0 Sinhala Medium 0
Mannar Vavuniya Tamil Medium 117 Tamil Medium 171 Tamil & English 8 Tamil & English 6 Sinhala Medium 1 Sinhala Medium 22 6 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
SCHOOLS BY TYPE AND STATUS BY DISTRICT, Northern Province (National, Provincial & Private Schools) Functioning Schools Temporarily Closed District 1AB 1C II III Sub 1AB 1C II III Sub Grand Total Total Total Jaffna 50 50 148 195 443 1 1 4 53 59 502 Kilinochchi 7 16 38 40 101 1 8 9 110 Mullaitivu 12 20 42 52 126 1 2 3 129 Mannar 6 14 36 57 113 1 3 4 117 Vavuniya 10 22 46 121 199 3 3 202 NP 85 122 310 465 982 1 2 6 69 78 1 ,060
CATEGORY OF SCHOOLS BY TYPE AND STATUS IN Northern Province (National, Provincial & Private Schools) Status Category Gran d Functioning Schools Temporarily Closed Total
School types 1AB 1C II III Sub 1AB 1C II III Sub Total Total National 13 1 14 14 Provincial 71 120 309 462 962 1 2 6 69 78 1,040 Private 5 1 6 6 Total 89 121 310 462 982 1 2 6 69 78 1,060 7 Source: Ministry of Education, Northern Province - As at 01.02.2013 Education: A Wider Perspective
ACTIVITIES Rs. 4,386 Mn invested to improve the Education Sector;
Reconstruction & repairing of 695 School buildings with water supply and sanitation facilities. Construction of 28 “Mahindodaya” laboratories. Organizing Nutritious Food Programme with Milk and mid day meals. Providing Educational Materials, Student kits and uniforms. Conducting language training programmes at schools. 1642 pre schools with 2,890 teachers and 48,252 children.
8 Source: Ministry of Education, Northern Province SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation ACTIVITIES Functional schools 2009 614 increased to 2013 989
Increasing enrolment rate of students in Grade One.
Increasing of survival rate in Primary Education.
Increasing eligible students for Secondary Education - GCE (A/L)
Increasing students qualifying for University Entrance
58 athletic medals and 21 medals for games were won in the Island-wide Schools Athletic Competitions
Winner of National Sports - 2011
Do You Know National Contest – 2011 9 National Level 2nd Place
Source: Ministry of Education, Northern Province Education: A Wider Perspective
Jaffna District Educational Development
General Information Total Investment for Development 627.30Mn
5 Zones 439 Schools 7,034 Teachers 134,918 Students
706 Pre- Schools 1,322 Teachers 19,053 Students
10 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Mahindodaya A ceremony to lay the Technical Laboratory foundation stone for Mahindodaya Technical for Jaffna Hindu Laboratory was held at Jaffna Hindu College on College 03rd July 2013 under the guidance of the principal of the school. The Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Under the 1000 secondary schools development program of “Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future”, Mahindodaya Technical Laboratories are being established in selected schools. Accordingly, this laboratory will be constructed at a cost of 9.2 million rupees. A special pooja was held at the temple in the school premises. Thereafter, the Governor laid the foundation stone. A tree 11 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2489:foundation-laid-for-the-constrction-of-mahinthothaya-technical-labouratory-at-jaffna-hindu-college-03-july-2013&catid=66:min-planting programme was education&Itemid=15 also held in the school. Education: A Wider Perspective
1000 Secondary Schools & 5000 Feeder Schools Development Programme No. of Secondary Schools Developed No. of Feeder Schools Developed in in 2012 :- 05 2012 & 2013 :- 162 Investment : Rs 175 Mn Investment : Rs 81.00 Mn CONSTRUCTION OF MAHINDODAYA TECHNICAL LABORATORIES
Zone 2012 2013
Jaffna 01 04 Valikamam 05 04 Vadamarchchi 01 05 Thenmaradchy 01 02 Islands 02 05 Total 10 20
Model Laboratory Amount allocated to each School Rs. 8.00Mn 12 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Mahindodaya “Mahindodaya Technical Technical Laboratory Laboratories have been a boon to the children in the remote for Jaffna, Varany areas. This is done in accordance Maha Vidyalayam with the Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future.”
A ceremony to lay the foundation stone for Mahindodaya Technical Laboratory was held at Varany Maha Vidyalayam on 10th July 2013 under the guidance of the principal of the school.
Governorthe occasion of the as Northernthe Chief ProvinceGuest GA Chandrasiri graced
. This laboratory will be constructed at a cost of 11 million rupees.
Under the 1000 secondary schools development program of “Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future”, Mahindodaya 13 Technical laboratories are being http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2502:foundation-stone-laid-for-mahindodaya-technical-laboratory-at-jvarany-mv-10-july-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=2established in selected schools.0 Education: A Wider Perspective
Mahindodaya A ceremony to lay the foundation stone for Mahindodaya Technical Laboratory Technical Laboratory was held at Chavakachcheri Hindu College on 03rd July 2013 under the guidance of the Principal of the school. G.A. Chandrasiri the Governor of the for Chavakachcheri Northern Province was the Chief Guest. The cost of the laboratory is Rs.11.13 Hindu College million. Under the 1000 secondary schools development program of “Mahinda Chinthana - Vision for the Future”, Mahindodaya Technical laboratories are being constructed in selected schools. A special pooja was held at the temple in the school premises.
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Construction of “Mahindodaya a Mahindodaya Technical Laboratories” is one of Technical Laboratory the main educational at Mankulam Maha MahindaChinthanaupliftment programmes of Vidyalayam –Vision for the Future”
Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri paid a visit to Mankulam MahaVidyalayam on 26th April to inspect the construction work of the Mahindodaya Technical Laboratory.
He instructed the relevant officials to http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content& constructedexpedite the under work view=article&id=2502:foundation-stone-laid-for- “Mahindaof Chinthanathe building - mahindodaya-technical-laboratory-at-jvarany-mv- 10-july-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20
15 Vision for the Future”. http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2306:inspection-visit-to-mankulam-mv-mahindodaya-technical-laboratory-construction-works-26-april-2013&catid=85&Itemid=20 Education: A Wider Perspective
The New building of The Newly constructed building of the Vavuniya Arugampulveliya school was the Arugampulveliya declared open on 28th June 2013 by the GSM School declared Governor of the Northern Province. 1 Governer Mr Chandrasiri who participated open as the Chief Guest. The building was constructed under the ENReP Project of the Ministry of Economic Development.
The New building Opening ceremony of a new building complex and the teachers’ quarters of Complex and teachers’ Vavuniya Bogaswewa Vidyalaya was quarters of Vavuniya held on 23 May 2013. Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri Bogaswewa Vidyalaya participated as the Chief Guest and opened2 declared open the building. The school was renovated at a cost of 10 million rupees. The Construction of the school buildings and teachers’ quarters, making a fence round the school, renovation of the toilets and the well were the main renovation works made with the fund. It should be noted that these renovations were made under the direction of Governor Chandrasiri. 16 1. http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2465:2013-06-29-08-05-09&catid=66:min-education&Itemid=15Learning materials were distributed to 2. http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2365:2013-05-25-07-34-23&catid=66&Itemid=15school children during the ceremony. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
The New building The opening ceremony of the Kilinochchi of new building of the KN / Jeyapuram Maha Jeyapuram Maha Vidyalaym was held on Vidyalayam 28th January 2014. declared open Minister of Education T. Kurukularajah graced the occasion as Chief Guest and declared open the building complex.
The building was constructed at a cost of 80.36 million rupees with the financial support of Australian Aid and UNICEF organizations.
Counsellor Edward Archibald and Ms. Una McCauley from Australia participated as guests of honour. Provincial Director of Education V.Selvarajah and other 17 officials also took part in http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2750:new-building-to-kilinochchi-jeyapuram-mv-28-january-2014&catid=66&Itemid=15the event. Education: A Wider Perspective
Opening Ceremony The opening ceremony of the Mu/ Katsilaimadu GTMS was held on of Mu/Katchilaimadu 29th of January 2014. The Principal GTMS of the Mu/Katsilamdu GTMS was the chairperson. The Australian High Commissioner for Sri Lanka & Maldives, Her Excellency Robyn Moody participated as Guest of Honour.
UNICEF Representative Ms. Una McCauley, Secretary, Ministry of Education, Northern Province, Provincial Director of Education Northern Province, Government Agent, Mullaitivu and Zonal Director of Education, Thunukkai participated as Special Guests.
The Programme commenced with the Hoisting of the National flag and the rendering of the National Anthem. After which the Plaque was unveiled. The Auditorium, Classroom complex, Agriculture room, Library and Laboratories were very attractive.
Parents’ involvements in 18 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2749:opening-ceremony-of-mu-katchilaimadu-gtms&catid=66:min-education&Itemid=15that programme were highly appreciated. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
“Primary education in the rural areas of the province has improved New Pre-school considerably with the support of the Building at Kilinochchi Government in the recent past.” Kaneshapuram
declared open The opening ceremony of new preschool building at Kilinochchi Kaneshapuram was held on 04th May 2013. Minister of Children Development and Women Affairs Tissa Karalliyadda and Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as chief guests and declared open the building.
Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa and Murugesu Chandrakumar participated as special guests.
This building was constructed at a cost of 12 million rupees with the financial support of Hemas Company.
Govt Agent of Kilinochchi District Roobavathy Ketheeswaran, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan, Security Forces Commander Major General Udaya Perera, Managing Director of Hemas Company Shiromi, divisional secretaries 19 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2321:new-pre-school-building-at-kilinochchi-kaneshapuram-declared-open--04-may-2013&Itemid=09and police officials also took part at this ceremony. Education: A Wider Perspective
Under the “Mahinda Progress of Chinthana - Vision for the ‘Foundation of Future”, Sri Lanka will be Knowledge Hub’ turned into a Knowledge Hub. Project reviewed As the schools are the foundation of the knowledge hub, a project called ‘Foundation of Knowledge Hub’ is being implemented throughout the island.
A meeting to review the progress of the project was held with the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary of Northern Province Mrs. R. Wijialudchumi in the conference hall of Provincial Education Ministry, Jaffna. The leader of the World Bank Monitoring and Supporting team Dr. Visaka and high ranking officials from the Provincial Ministry of Education and Department 20 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2520:progress-of-foundation-of-knowledge-hub-project-reviewed-26-july-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid+20of Education attended this meeting. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Graduate Teachers “These appointments will appointed to Northern definitely solve the scarcity of teachers prevailing in Province schools some parts of the Northern Province.the education This is sectoranother is milestone achieved as
considered important in this Province.”
A ceremony to issue letters of appointment to graduate teachers of Jaffna and Kilinochchi districts was held on 07 June 2013 at Kopay College of Education.
Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Douglas Devananda and Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the chief guests and handed over the letters to 201 teachers. said that these In his address, Governor teacher shortage in the 21 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2418:graduate-teachers-appointed-to-np-schools-07-june-2013&catid=66&Itemid=15 appointments will fill the Education: A Wider Perspective
Northern schools, in the streams of Mathematics, Science, English and Information Technology. We should work hard to uplift the standard of education in the Northern Province which has been affected during the war. He requested the newly studentsappointed to obtain teachers good to work hard and to direct the
results in public exams.
Chief Secretary of Northern Province Mrs. R. Wijialudchumi, Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Mayoress of Jaffna Mrs. Y. Patkunarajah, Deputy Secretary of Education Ministry P. Vigneswaran, Provincial Director of Education V. Selvarajah and President of Kopay College of Education S. Amirthalingam also took part in the event. 22 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
A National Program launched by the President to distribute Milk to school children
A National Programme to distribute cows-milk to school children under the theme “Nation with right nutrition and an active young generation” was launched at K/Vaddakachchi Maha Vidyalayam on 15th June 2013. His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa was the Chief Guest.
After the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, the President ceremonially inaugurated the nutrition program by giving cups of milk to 23 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2435:national-milk-distribution-programme-inaugurated-by-governor-15-june-2013&catid=85&Itemid=20the school children. Education: A Wider Perspective
“Mahinda Chinthana - Nutrition Programme for school children Vision for the Future” always focussed on initiated by the a healthy society Governor especially for the younger generation. This initiative was an instrument in achieving this target. The Nutrition program was inaugurated by H.E. the President in Kilinochchi on 15th June 2013.”
The Governor of the Northerninaugurating Province the GA Chandrasiri
Nutrition Program at the Jaffna St. Benedict Vidyalayam on 03rd July 2013 gave away food, milk, eggs, dates and vitamin 24 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2490:governor-initiated-nutrition-food-programme-for-school-children-03-july-2013&catid=66:min-education&Itemid=15tablets to the school children. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
“The Government of Sri Lanka with the support of UNICEF and other donor organizations has contributed a lot to the betterment of Northern children. Bicycles distributed to Children in the north now enjoy their rights in a peaceful atmosphere.” children who rejoined their families from A ceremony to distribute bicycles to children, who rejoined their families from Childrens Homes childrens homes, was held on 29th June 2013. The Department of Probation and Childcare Services had organized this event with the support of UNICEF.
Provincial Commissioner of Probation and Childcare Services S. Viswaruban attended the function. Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the Chief Guest and distributed the bicycles to the children.
150 students, who lived in childrens homes due to the war and poverty in the Mullaitivu, Vavuniya and Kilinochchi districts were rejoined with their parents and received these bicycles.
Among the other guests were the Mayoress of Jaffna Mrs. Y. Patkunarajah, Chief Secretary of Northern Province Mrs R. Wijialudchumi, Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan, Secretary of Provincial Ministry of Local Government R. Varatheeswaran and other high ranking officials.
25 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2475:bicycle-distribution&catid=66&Itemid=15 Education: A Wider Perspective
The Provincial level inter-school sports meet started on 04 July Provincial Level 2013 at the Jaffna Duraiyappa Inter-School Sports Stadium. The sports meet was held for five days. Governor of Meet Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the Chief Guest and declared open the first day’s events.
The Governor encouraged the students to do well at the competitions. The participants who were selected from district level meets are participating at this sports meet. Winners from this meet will go to the national level sports meet.
The Mayoress of Jaffna Mrs. Y. Patkunarajah, Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan and several high ranking officials also took part in the inaugural session. 26 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2495:provincial-level-inter-school-sports-meet-commenced-04-july-2013&catid=66&Itemid=15 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Kilinochchi District Educational Development
General Information Total Investment for Development 1749*Mn
99 Schools 1,647Teachers 28,620 Students Student Teacher Ratio – 17:1
* 2010 - 180Mn 2011 - 273Mn 2012 - 1275Mn 27 Education: A Wider Perspective
Distribution of Milk to Nutrition 2,744 Students from 18 Schools Programme - Kilinochchi Distribution of Eggs to 3,591 Students from 18 District Schools Distribution of Mid-Day Meal to 22,719 Students from 98 Schools
28 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Examination Performance in % Kilinochchi District Grade 5 Scholarship GCE O/L
GCE A/L Stream Wise
29 Education: A Wider Perspective
School Development Programme - No. of Secondary Kilinochchi District Schools Developed: 10 1000 Secondary No. of Feeder Schools Schools & 5000 Developed: 38 Feeder Schools Investment: Rs 139 Mn
30 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
School Development Details of Achievements - 2012 Programme - Mannar District Number of Schools 146 1000 Secondary Number of Students 26940 Schools & 5000 Scholarship % Qualifying (Above 70 marks) 42.3% Feeder Schools G.C.E(O/L) % Qualifying for A/L 63.9% G.C.E (A/L) % Qualifying for University 67.3%
No. of Secondary Schools Developed: 22
No. of Feeder Schools Developed: 7
Investment: Rs 139 Mn Mahindodaya Technical Lab At Mn/Thalaimannarpier GTMS 31 Education: A Wider Perspective
School Development Mullaitivu District Programme - Educational Development Mulaitivu District
1000 Secondary Schools & 5000 Feeder Schools
No. of Core Schools Developed: 10 Total Investment Under Various Projects No. of Feeder Schools 2009 - 2012 203.5Mn Developed: 31 2 Zones 115 Schools 1,508 Teachers 24,037 Students Investment : Rs 139 Mn
32 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Sports Meet to foster Cordial Relationships among the students of Northern Province and other Provinces
“The Tamil community in the North has got many opportunities after the end of the war, to communicate with the Sinhalese people. A Sports meet is another special feature to promote mutual understanding.”
Sports Meet to foster cordial relationships among the students of the Northern Province and other provinces organized by the Provincial Department of Education under the direction of the Governor was held at Vaddukkoddai Jaffna College on 30 May 2013. The Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri was the Chief Guest 33 Nearly 500 students from 24 schools in the Northern, Eastern and North Central http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2384:sports-meet-to-develop-cordial-relationship-among-the-students-of-np-and-other-provinces-30-may-2013&catid=85&Itemid=20Provinces took part in the competitions. Volleyball, netball, football, cricket, basketball and hockey competitions were held during this sports meet. Education: A Wider Perspective
Nearly 500 students from 24 schools in the Northern, Eastern and North Central Provinces took part in the competitions. Volleyball, netball, football, cricket, basketball and hockey competitions were held at this sports meet.
34 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Foundation to ‘friendship bridge’ between the Sinhala and Tamil communities
35 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2515:foundation-stone-laid-toelephantpass-railway-station-24-july-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid Education: A Wider Perspective
A foundation stone laying ceremony to construct the Elephant Pass Railway Station was held on 24 July 2013. Minister of Education Bandula Gunawardana and the Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the Chief Guests and laid the foundation stones along with Provincial Education Ministers and Deputy Minister of Transport.
15 million rupees has been collected from the students and teachers from all the provinces in Sri Lanka for the construction of the station. This station will be a ‘friendship bridge’ between the Tamil and Sinhala communities in the country.
Provincial Education Ministers of Southern, North Central and Sabaragamuwa Provinces, Provincial Education Secretaries, Directors, Military Officials, Principals, Teachers and Students graced the event.
This is the first instance in history that the foundation stone for the construction of a Railway station was laid by school children and teachers of the nine provinces. This will strengthen the prevailing peaceful atmosphere in the country. 36 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2515:foundation-stone-laid-toelephantpass-railway-station-24-july-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 The Elephant Pass Railway Station would be another milestone in the reconciliation efforts of GOSL. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Vavuniya District Vavuniya District Educational Educational Development Development
Educational Performance Description Units
No.of Schools reopened 73 No.of Class Room Buildings Constructed 111 No.of Teachers 2535 No.of Students 41735 No.of Schools provided with science labs 75 No.of Schools provided with IT facilities 68 No.of Schools provided with Activity Rooms 31 No.of Schools provided with Sanitation facilities 135 No.of Schools provided with Water facilities 135 37 No.of Schools provided with library facilities 73 Education: A Wider Perspective
Assistance to school children of Island Education Zone
A ceremony to assist deserving school children of the Island Education Zone was held at Yarlton College, Karainagar on 07 August 2013. Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri was the Chief Guest.
Governor Chandrasiri provided financial assistance to the children who are below the poverty line by giving them a monthly incentive payment for their education. The payment varies from Rs. 500 to 1000 according to the economic condition of the family and class standard. This incentive is provided to all deserving children in the province. 38 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2542:governor-assists-the-school-children-of-island-education-zone-07-august-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Foundation Stone laid for the Construction of the University College
39 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2588:foundation-for-the-construction-of-university-college-jaffna-laid-16th-september-2013&catid=85&Itemid=20 Education: A Wider Perspective
The foundation stone for the construction of the University College-Jaffna was laid at the Jaffna Technical College premises on 16th September 2013, to upgrade the standards of education in the province according to the Mahinda Chinthana -vision for the future. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Skills Development will construct the building at a cost of 115 million rupees.
The Minister of Youth Affairs and Skills Development Dullas Alahapperuma, Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Douglas Devananda, Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri, Parliamentarian M. Chandrakumar and Monitoring Parliamentarian Mohanlal Grero laid the foundation stones.
25 university colleges are being constructed throughout the country with the funding of the Ministry of Finance. Steps have been taken presently to construct 7 university colleges during the first phase of this project. In these colleges, 30 new courses are to be introduced making a total of 40 diploma courses. 300 students will be enrolled to the courses.
These university colleges will bring a bright future to the students who missed the opportunities to enter the universities by a slight margin.
Moreover these colleges will give a chance to those who obtain top marks in the subjects to continue their degree studies at the Life Skills University in Colombo, Ratmalana. 40 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Teachers appointed A function to distribute to Weli-Oya schools letters of appointment to the teachers from the Weli- on Contract Basis Oya division was held at the Governor’s Secretariat in Jaffna on 20th June 2013. The Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated at this event and handed over the Letters of Appointment. 36 teachers were appointed to the schools in the Weli-Oya division. The Governor had assured at the Weli-Oya development meeting that the teachers shortage prevailing in the area would be solved soon. Accordingly, an interview to recruit the teachers was held on 14th June 2013. This is a fulfillment of another long standing 41 issue by the present government. Education: A Wider Perspective
Permanent “A large number of volunteer teachers have been made Appointments to permanent after the end of Vanni Volunteer hostilities. This has given confidence to the teachers serving Teachers in difficult areas.”
A special ceremony to distribute permanent appointments to the volunteer teachers of Vavuniya, Mannar and Mullaitivu districts was held at the Vavuniya Rambaikulam Ladies College on 23 June 2013. Minister of Industries and Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Douglas Devananda and the Governor of the Northern Province G.A. Chandrasiri participated as chief guests.
24 volunteer teachers from Vavuniya North Education Zone, 43 volunteer teachers from Madhu Education Zone, 86 volunteer teachers from Mullaitivu Education Zone and 78 volunteer teachers from Thunukkai Education 42 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2453:2013-06-24-10-53-14&catid=85&Itemid=20 Zone received their Letters of Appointment. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Vanni students An event to assist the students receive assistance of the Wanni region was held at Kilinochchi Maha Vidyalayam on 28th June 2013. The Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the Chief Guest.
1554 students from 122 schools received incentive amounts and learning materials. Especially 3 students who got university entrance were given laptops. A printing machine was also given to Mahadeva Ashram in Kilinochchi at this event.
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Volunteer Teachers receive their Letters of Appointments
A ceremony to mark permanent appointments to the volunteer teachers of Vadamaradchi East Maruthankerny was held at the Kilinochchi district cooperative hall on 23 June 2013.
Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development Douglas Devananda and Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as chief guests and issued the letters of appointment to the volunteer teachers.
253 volunteer teachers from Kilinochchi district and 34 volunteer teachers 44 from Vadamaradchi East http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2452:2013-06-24-10-47-33&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 Maruthankerny division received their letters of appointment. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Job Security to “The Education sector in Northern Part-time teachers Province has seen a tremendous improvement in the recent past. The results of the public examinations is a good index on the performance of the northern students. Teachers also made a useful contribution towards these achievements.”
A meeting with the part-time teachers was held at the auditorium of the Provincial Ministry of Education on 27th January 2014. The Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri chaired the meeting.
The Governor assured that the teachers who have the necessary qualifications will be appointed with the approval of the board of provincial council ministers. Meantime the teachers who did not complete the diploma in teaching were instructed to complete their diplomas as soon as possible to become eligible to receive appointments. Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan, Provincial Director of Education V. Selvarajah and other high officials also took part in this 45 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2727:part-time-teachers-meet-governor-27-january-2014&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 discussion. Education: A Wider Perspective
Scholarships to Vavuniya Students
An event to give scholarships to the students who are below the poverty line in Vavuniya District was held at Vavuniya Gamini Maha Vidyalayam on 26th July 2013. The Governor of the Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as the Chief Guest and gave the scholarship assistance to students of low income families.
These scholarships were distributed to the students who struggle to continue their studies due to poverty. 46 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2522:vavuniya-students-receive-scholarships-from-governor-26-july-2016&catid=85&Itemid=20 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Pre School teachers in Northern Province awarded Diploma Certificates
47 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2581:convacation&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 Education: A Wider Perspective
Pre-School Diploma Certificatesth were awarded to those who had completed the course on 08 September 2013 at Neeraviyady Ilangai Venthan College, Jaffna. Minister for Economic Development, Basil Rajapaksa, Minister for Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development, Douglas Devananda and Northern Province Governor GA. Chandrasiri participated as Chief Guests at this function. A total of 652 Pre School teachers from all Districts in the Northern Province namely Jaffna, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, Mannar, Vavuniya and another 41 Sinhala medium teachers from Eastern Province were felicitated and awarded certificates. This qualification will definitely enable the respective pre-school teachers to serve in many parts of the province filling the vacancies of 48 pre-school teachers. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Assistance to A ceremony to assist deserving School deserving school children of the Weli-Oya region was Children of Weli-Oya held at Sampathnuwarath Maha Vidyalaya, Weli- Oya on 10 August 2013. Parliamentarian Namal Rajapaksa and Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri participated as Chief Guests.
Governor Chandrasiri helped the children who are below the poverty line by providing monthly incentive payments for their education. The incentive varies according to the Financial condition of the family and class standard. This incentive is provided to all deserving children in the province.
High ranking officials of the Government, the Army and 49 the school societies also took http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2546:governor-assists-the-weli-oya-school-children-10-august-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 part in the event. Education: A Wider Perspective
‘Mother Sri Lanka’ A delegation headed by Ms. Extended to the Janaki Kuruppu – Chairperson and Founder of ‘Mother Sri North Lanka’ called on the Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri at his office on 18th October 2013.
‘Mother Sri Lanka’ which was inauguratedengaging the at next the President’sgeneration Office rolled out its agenda of
of Sri Lankans to understand the value of Responsible Citizenship, Unity and National Pride through the aptly named Project RUN in over 1300 schools covering all the 25 districts in the country.
The project is to be extended to the Northern Province. Therefore the team met the Governor and explained their activities and sought the support of the province to run 50 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2610:mother-sri-lanka-representatives-meets-governor-18-october-2013&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 the project successfully. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Student from Jaffna Governor has expressed his best wishes to District wins first the students who obtained top marks and who passed Grade V scholarship in 2013. place in the Grade Paramanantham Thanuraj from Jaffna 5 scholarship Earlalai West Saivasanmarka Vidyalayam who obtained 194 marks in the Grade V Examination in the scholarship examination came first in the Tamil medium Jaffna District as well as the first in the island in the Tamil medium.
The students and schools received their results from the official website of Department of Examinations which had published it on 01st October 2013. This year all five districts of the province have shown good results with a remarkable increase in the pass rate than the previous years.
He thanked those who supported the students in the exam. He wished the students a bright future.
It is also significant that the Top Achivers in the Grade V scholarship were felicitated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Colombo on 03rd October 2013. Master P. Thanuraj, 51 his parents and the school principal were http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2594:schol&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20 invited to the ceremony. Education: A Wider Perspective
New Education The New Minister of Education, Minister of Northern Cultural Affairs, Sports and Youth Affairs T. Kurukularajah Provincial Council assumed duties today at his assumes duties office located at Semmani Road, Jaffna.
He was given a warm welcome in traditional fashion by Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan and other high ranking officials and staff. A meeting was organized at the auditorium of the ministry. Subsequently he signed the document assuming duties.
Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Provincial Director of Education V. Selvarajah, Director of Cultural Affairs Mrs. N. Sridevi, Director of Sports Raja Ranasingha, Zonal Education Directors of the province and other high ranking officials from Education Ministry and staff took part in the event. 52 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2601:new-education-minister-of-npc-assumes-duties-14-october-2013&catid=66&Itemid=15 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Facilities for Education: University Students and Ex-Combatants
The objective of this scheme, is to allow IDP students who have returning from war zone have allowed to continue their studies in the Universities after going through the government proceduresThis scheme applicable started to in IDPs 2010 and Ex-Combatants. Out of 424 students, 189 were selected for this scheme. Each of these students gets assistance for the university Academic year up to completion of the course studies.
The following criteria have been recommended for identification. Displaced Students - Rs. 2,000/- Students who have lost their breadwinners - Rs. 3,500/- Students of families with incomes under of Rs. 6,000/- - Rs. 5,000/- Married Students - Rs. 6,500/-
Assistance Given under the scheme. In 2010 - 189 Students ( Rs. 7.98 Mn) In 2011 - 180 Students ( Rs. 7.63 Mn) In 2012 - 103 Students ( Rs. 3.97 Mn)
53 Education: A Wider Perspective
Northern Province The education sector in the Northern Province has made vast strides since the end of hostilities. After the hostilities ended, the Government of Sri Lanka has provided all the necessary facilities students excelled in to the students of the Northern Province to carry out their educational activities.
A/L Exam The Peaceful environment has paid dividends, as the Northern students have shown better results this time. One time child soldiers are now immersed in books. The ending of terrorism and the dawn of peace in the North has enabled the children in the North to reach the top in the field of education.
For the first time in history the Northern Province has the largest number of students qualifying for the university entrance at the GCE Advanced Level examination.
The Governor of Northern Province congratulated all the students of Northern Province who have contributed to this achievement.
He also wished the students to keep improving in the next exams as well.
Meanwhile the Governor congratulated Master N. Sivamahindan who received a BRONZE Medal in Mathematics at the 10th International Olympiad held in November 2013. Sri Lanka was placed 2nd in the recently concluded Olympiad Competition. This time Sri Lanka received 17 medals including 4 gold medals.
These students met His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa on 23rd December 2013 and received his blessings and greetings.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa requested all the students who scored top marks at the 2013 GCE Advanced Level examination to dedicate themselves to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of their parents by becoming useful citizens of the country, while also protecting and safeguarding the 54 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2648:northern-province-excelled-in-a-l-exam&catid=85&Itemid=20pride of their motherland. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Rs.130Mn Allocation A special function to give the to 2017 teachers in arrears of salary to the Northern Province teachers was held Northern Province at Governor’s Secretariat in Jaffna on 16 May 2013. The Northern Province Governor GA Chandrasiri participated in the function and handed over the arrears of the salaries.
2017 teachers from all 12 zones Northern Province received their dues which were pending due to their promotions and predated appointments. For this purpose, the Governor allocated 130 million rupees.
Chief Secretary of Northern Province Mrs R. Wijialudchumi, Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S. Sathiyaseelan, Provincial Director of Education V. Selvarajah and other high rank 55 officials from education sector http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2352:np-teachers-salary-arrears-provided-16-may-2013&catid=66&Itemid=15 also participated at this event. Education: A Wider Perspective
This is considered another special feature where the teachers of the Northern Province are treated with a high degree of respect & honor. No. of AZone district - wise detail of salaries is given Amountbelow. (Mn) Teachers
Jaffna 195 8.0
Valikamam 279 9.0 8.0 Vadamaradchi 170 4.0 Thenmaradchi 113 0.5 Island 51 8.0 Kilinochchi 92 23.0 Mullaitivu 255 0.5 ThunukkaiMannar 21 29.0 Madhu 198 11.0 140 24.0 Vavuniya North 429 5.0 56 Vavuniya South 74 Total 2017 130 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Students who A ceremony to felicitate the students who obtained excelled at the GCE the best results at the (A/L) Examination GCE (Advanced Level) examination was held at the Governor’s Secretariat, Jaffna on 02nd January 2014. “Give the maximum During this event, the support to the Chief students who have performed best at last Minister and the year’s GCE (A/L) exam at Northern Provincial Provincial level and District Council” level were felicitated by the Governor. They were awarded medals, certificates and cash prizes. – Governor, Northern Province The Governor also gave materials for poojas worth of 50,000 rupees to the Priest Senthura Sharma Kurukkal of Eachchamottai Gnana-Vairavar Hindu temple to mark the dawn of the New Year.
While addressing the 57 http://www.np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2664:new-year&catid=85&Itemid=20 gathering, the Governor Education: A Wider Perspective
extended his New Year wishes to everyone. He said the students of the Northern Province made the province proud. He thanked all those who worked towards this achievement. He also said that the Northern Province has developed in every aspect under the guidance and dynamic leadership of HE the President Mahinda Rajapaksa and the People are doing their day to day activities in a peaceful atmosphere.
The Governor also requested all government officers to extend their fullest support to the Chief Minister Vigneshwaran and Provincial Ministers this year too, as they had done ealier. The Northern Provincial Council is running smoothly without any interruption. Since the establishment of the Northern Province, the country is on the right footing Thewith Northern all provincial education councils sector fully hasfunctional regained as of& thisrestored date. lost pride
The Northern Province has seen much development during the last 4½ years. Many sectors have seen rapid progress. Especially, the education sector has shown remarkable improvement . The results at the G C E (A/L) is one good example for this achievement. These results not only showed the real situation in the country but also the standard of education in the province. It restored the lost pride of the Northern education sector which had experienced a great set back during the 3 decade armed conflict. The Governor also requested the students who performed well to get the blessings of the Chief Minister C.V. Vigneshwaran as well. 58 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Commencement of events at the auspicious time
The events commenced with the Governor lighting the traditional oil lamp followed by the blessings of all religious leaders. In his address, Professor Emeritus P. Balasundarampillai said that the education sector of Northern Province is being improved and encouraged by the Governor with various education projects. He stressed that the contribution of the parents is essential for the students to reach their Letters of appointment as English Teacherstargets. to Catholic Priests
The Governor also handed over letters of appointment as English teachers to Catholic priests on this occasion. Accordingly, five catholic reverend fathers received their letters of appointment. The Governor also felicitated the students who obtained top marks in each stream at district and provincial level.
96 drivers of Grade III recruits also received letters of appointment.
Chief Secretary of the Northern Province Mrs. R. Wijialudchumi, Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, Secretaries to the provincial ministries, heads of departments attached to the provincial council, school principals and parents also took part in these events.
59 Education: A Wider Perspective
“English language has been a link language in Sri Lanka since Preliminary independence. Above all this Discussion on language is also recognized as an international language. The English Language government of Sri Lanka has realized this fact and acted fast after the end of hostilities in 2009. English as a life skill is the main theme of this project.The society in Northern Province is well educated in English.”
Under the guidance of Governor of Northern Province GA Chandrasiri, English language debates will be held among the selected senior schools students to improve the spoken ability in English Language.
A preliminary discussion in this regard was held at Governor’s Secretariat on 09th January 2014. The Governor chaired the discussion. Secretary to the Governor L. Ilaangovan, officials from Provincial Department of Education and Zonal Education Offices, the Principals of the leading schools and English 60 http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2680:preliminary-discussion-on-english-language-debate-held-09-january-2014&catid=85:min-gs&Itemid=20teachers were also present at this meeting. SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Awards Ceremony A ceremony to give awards to the students who obtained best results in for Best Performers G.C.E (Advanced Level) examination of G.C.E. (A/L) 2013 2013 was held under the chairmanship of Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education S.Sathiyaseelan at Management Hall, Zonal Education
Office, Jaffna on 31st January 2014.
Provincial Minister of Education T. Kurukularasa participated as the Chief Guest and R. Varatheeswaran, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Transport, Trade & Commerce and Rural Development participated as the Special Guest.
During this event, 20 students who had performed best in the GCE (A/L) exam last year at Provincial level and District level were felicitated by the Hon Minister. They were awarded medals, cash prizes and certificates. Assistant Secretary of Ministry of Education Mrs. S.S. Sebastian, Provincial Director of Education V. Selvarajah, Director of School Works K. Kuhanesan, Zonal Directors, Deputy Directors of Education, Assistant Directors of 61 Education, other staff, principals, http://np.gov.lk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2732:awarding-ceremony-for-best-performers-of-g-c-e-a-l-2013&catid=66:min-education&Itemid=15teachers, parents and students also took part in the event. Education: A Wider Perspective
How President Rajapaksa Captivated the Hearts of Tamil Children at “Sencholai” Home run by “KP” at Kilinochchi
September 14th 2013 was a red letter day for the people of Kilinochchi as the “Yarl Devi” Train steamed into Kilinochchi after many years on that Saturday. Sri Lanka’s President Mahinda Rajapaksa himself was on board the train as a special passenger during the 35 minute journey of the “Yarl Devi” from Omanthai. He had earlier ceremonially declared open the new phase of the train from Omanthai to Kilinochchi.
While the people of Kilinochchi were elated at the prospect of Trains running By again after many years there was one group of young children who were even more D.B.S. Jeyaraj thrilled by the President due to another reason. For these children the day became unforgettable as they had an opportunity of interacting with the President directly. 62 http://dbsjeyaraj.com/dbsj/archives/25819 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
What happened on Saturday September 14th was that NERDO President Rajapaksa after the train journey and a few other events in Kilinochchi town went by motor vehicle to the The NGO known as NERDO (North –Eastern Rehabilitation 57 division headquarters at Iranaimadhu in the Kilinochchi and Development Organization ) run by KP is engaged in a area for luncheon. number of projects to better the lives and living conditions of people in the war ravaged northern mainland known One of the routes to the 57 division headquarters was along as Wanni. Chief among these are a home for 75 orphaned the Kanagambigai Amman road branching off from the boys known as “Anbu Illam” near Muthaiyankattu, a girls Jaffna–Kandy road known as the A -9 highway. Along this home called “Bharathy Illam” for 100 at Mulliyavalai and road also called Service road was the “Sencholai” home the “Sencholai” in Kilinochchi for 125 girls. Since KP for school girls. The Sencholai home for orphaned girls himself is based in Kilinochchi he devotes much time to or those from poor single parent homes was begun by the the activities at “Sencholai”. Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) over 20 years ago. It was relocated to Vallipunam in Mullaitheevu during On September 14th a Tamil cultural festival “Muthamizh the height of war. It ceased to exist during the final phase Vizha” was being held for the girls at “Bharathy Illam” of the war. and “Sencholai” in Kilinochchi. It was a pre-arranged event scheduled before the arrival of President Rajapaksa The “Sencholai” home for girls was reborn in a new in Kilinochchi. However on Saturday early morning it form last year under the administration of Selvarasa became known that President Rajapaksa was arriving Pathmanathan alias “KP” the former chief arms procurer in Kilinochchi. It was also anticipated that the President of the LTTE who later became chief of the tigers due to and his entourage may partake of Lunch at the 57 division his seniority after the demise of Velupillai Prabhakaran headquarters in Iranaimadhu. in May 2009. KP was arrested in Malaysia and deported to Sri Lanka in August 2009. Instead of charging him for When this news broke at the “Sencholai” there was much involvement in “terrorism” the Rajapaksa Govt handled excitement among the staff and children. They began the KP issue in an unusually humanistic manner. He was asking KP to provide a chance to meet the President. KP placed under protective custody and allowed to start a non- said that it was beyond his powers to set up a meeting with governmental organization to cater to the needs of the war the President. Seeing the disappointment on the faces of the affected community in the North. children KP suggested an alternative. Taking a chance that 63 Education: A Wider Perspective the President may drive along the road to 57 hqrs, KP got The President moved inside the Sencholai premises freely the girls to line up opposite “Sencholai” in front. He also set going from one spot to another. His security men scurried up a table with the traditional symbols of welcome like the about trying frantically to regulate the spontaneous “kuthu Vilakku” lamp, “Niraikudam” pot and “santhanam movements of their President. Mahinda however mixed (sandal) “paneer” (rose water) vessels. freely with the children engaging in conversation with them in Tamil. He stroked the heads of some kids and ECSTATIC patted cheeks of others. While most children called the President “Sir” a few were bold enough to address him The Sencholai-Bharathy Illam children were lucky. as “Janathipathy Maamaa” (President Uncle) and even President Rajapaksa’s motorcade did take the Kanagambigai “Mahinda Maamaa” (Uncle Mahinda). Amman road route. But what happened thereafter was totally unexpected and made the children ecstatic. DORMITORY
It was 12.10 pm when the President’s convoy reached The President also walked fast towards a dormitory that “Sencholai”. Seeing the children outside, Mahinda got the appeared dark from outside. Seeing the President heading motorcade stopped. He got out of his vehicle and before his towards it, one security officer tried to go in first and check security personnel could stop him approached the children. out the precincts beforehand but Mahinda was faster. The He addressed them in Tamil with a smile “Enna Vaendum president asked the lights to be switched on and moved Ungalukku?” (what do you all want?). “Neenga Ullukku around. He observed the lack of pillows and bed sheets on varavaendum” (you must come inside). Again without several of the beds and bunkers. waiting for any security clearance the President then started walking inside as requested by the children. When he queried the reasons for it, KP replied that children Selvarasa Pathmanathan then went forward to greet had been admitted in large numbers very recently and that the President. Seeing him, Mahinda said “How are you funds were insufficient to cater to all their needs immediately. KP?” and shook hands with the former tiger leader. The The President then said that arrangements would be made President was welcomed by the staff members who placed to supply mattresses, pillows and bed sheets and instructed the santhanappottu on his forehead and sprinkled pannier. his officials to take action immediately. He also told KP to Mahinda also lit the Kuthuvilakku. The children also inform him of any issue of urgent importance and that he provided an improvised guard of honour for the President. would attend to it immediately. 64 SRI LANKA: Peace, Development & Reconciliation
Revolutionary Liberation front (EPRLF). Recalling the past Douglas referred to a meeting he had with KP decades ago in Tamil Nadu.
ENRAPTURED
The President then complimented KP for the work he was doing and wished him success in the projects. He than bade farewell to staff members and children and departed with his entourage leaving behind enraptured children whose hearts and minds had been captivated by the President’s friendly approach in this unplanned exercise.
Asked for a comment, KP said that it was a very great day for the children at Sencholai and that the children had been enchanted by the President’s friendly manner and also his concern. He said that the children had described the meeting The President also remarked jovially that KP was struggling with President Rajapaksa as “Marakka mudiyaatha Naal” to collect funds to run these homes for orphaned children (unforgettable day) and that some kids were writing short while all the money in LTTE coffers were being used for essays on their experience with “Mahinda Maamaa” and a their own purposes by some people in the Diaspora. few were also drawing sketches about it.
Northern Province Governor Gen. Chandrasiri and KP also said that no Tamil politician from the Tamil National Traditional Industries minister Douglas Devananda were Alliance had ever visited any of the three children’s homes also among those who accompanied the President. Inspired run by the NERDO to date. by the President’s sympathetic approach both told KP to contact them if anything was needed. Devananda who pic via: sencholai.org leads the Eelam Peoples Democratic Party (EPDP) now http://dbsjeyaraj.com/dbsj/archives/25819 19 September 2013, 12:27 am was earlier the military commander of the Eelam Peoples 65