Lankans' moral values deteriorating - Thera

K. A. Perera, Wadduwa special corr.

WADDUWA: If Robert Knox, revisited, it is no doubt that he would be surprised to see that the moral qualities of the Sri Lankans were degenerating and the country's crime rate is increasing. This is due to the non-observation of five precepts taught by the Buddha.

The parents should take the responsibility to encourage their children to attend Dhamma Schools, said Ven. Sasthrapathi Pooja Gonaduwe Gunananda Thera - Registrar of the All Island Sasanaraksaka Bala Mandalaya. The Thera was delivering the key-note address at the annual prize giving of Sri Dhammananda Dhamma School at Wadduwa.

The ceremony was held at Wadduwa - Molligoda Raja Maha Viharaya of Sri Dhammananda Dhamma School recently.

Ven. Thalwatte Indrajothi Maha Nayaka Thera of Daladawatta Maha Viharaya - Talpitiya, Wadduwa presided.

He said that during the period of Robert Knox the people's moral qualities were high and the people led a peaceful life as they were closely associated with the Maha Sangha and the temple. The temple was the centre of learning and the younger generation had a high regard and respect for Maha Sangha.

"With the advent of the foreigners to Sri Lanka, It changed the education set up of the country and missionaries took over the education of the country and the people were induced to consume liquor and other evil habits and the society was gradually corrupted," he said.

The Thera said the Government has realized the importance of Dhamma education and the present Government has given special recognition to Dhamma certificates. It is only through Dhamma education, a decent society could be set up in the country.

The attendance of Dhamma School by the student is gradually reducing as the parents take initiative to send their children to private tuition classes.

However, the parents have realized the value of Dhamma education today.

The Thera thanked the Head of the Dhamma Institute Ven. Bopitiye Dhammisara Thera for his devoted service and the staff of Dhammananda Dhamma School.

Panadura Education Director Amarasena Dissanayaka said the Education Department has realized the value of Dhamma education, and majority of youths involved in corruption activities are the youths who did not attend Dhamma schools. The students acquire high ideals through Dhamma education Registrar of the Panadura Sasanarakshaka Bala Mandalaya Ven. Kotugoda Jothiratna Thera said the Dhamma School was opened in 1918 and is rendering a great service for the welfare of students and the people in the area.

Ven. Pooja Agalawatte Ariyadassaw Thera proposed the vote of thanks. Panadura PS Chairman Sunethra Lal Fernando, Opposition Leader Leelananda Perera PS member Nimal Ilangage and several others spoke.