Three projects to improve physical and spiritual values
Nadira GUNATILLEKE
COLOMBO: The Social Services and Social Welfare Ministry will
implement three parallel projects under Deputy Minister Lionel
Premasiri’s directions to upgrade society physically and spiritually, a
Social Services and Social Welfare Ministry spokesman said.
He said all three projects will commence on May 19 from Galle. The
first programme is `Poshanayen Idiriyata’. This programme was organised
by the Lionel Premasiri Foundation and Lions Club 306 B 1.
The main objective of the project is upgrading nutrition level of
pre-schoolchildren, sportsmen and women and breast feeding mothers.
Under the programme the Foundation will provide nutritious milk
powder imported from the United Kingdom at a cost of Rs. 9.1 million.
The second programme, `Yahagunayen Idiriyata’ is aimed at recognising
the capabilities of elders and implementing different programmes
parallel to International Elders’ Day that falls on October 1.
Under this attention will be paid on as to how elders’ knowledge and
experiences can be directed for the country’s development while making
them partners of the development process.
The third programme, `Nenabalayen Idiriyata’ is aimed at granting
scholarships for students under the `Nena Sara Sisu Jaya Scholarship
Programme. Annually one scholarship recipient will receive Rs. 6000.
A student from any part of the country can apply for these
scholarships.
Students without parents, whose brother or sister is in the armed
forces, whose close relative died of the North East conflict or members
of low income families, students with special talents in sports or with
mentally or physically disabled parents, with more than six siblings and
students who possess a special recommendation of the principal can apply
for this scholarship programme.
Deputy Minister Premasiri has stressed the importance of assisting
students to create more talented youth such as Sanath Jayasuriya and
Lasith Malinga. He also stated, “we have to respect elders for their
dedication towards building a better “future’.” |