Children’s Day celebrations at A’pura

Nadira Gunatilleke

ANURADHAPURA: The Child Development and Women’s Empowerment Ministry celebrated the Universal Children’s Day in Anuradhapura with the participation of 700 children from all ethnic and religious groups in the North and East, the Ministry spokesman said.

He said the children from refugee camps at Vavuniya, Ikirigollewa and Alikidulagala participated in a camp at the Anuradhapura Swarnapali Balika Vidyalaya from September 28 to 30. Children from Ethawetunuwewa, Kebithigollewa and Mullaitivu also participated.

The children took part in music, drama and cultural events. Certificates and presents were also awarded to the winners of the literary and arts competitions held in Sinhala, Tamil and English medium.

M. Prasandi Thalasha of Maththumagala Karunaratne Maha Vidyalaya, Ragama won the prize for creating the best child logo.

Three-wheeler parade carrying the message of ‘Let’s prevent child exploitation’ was held in the Anuradhapura town.

Minister Sumedha Jayasena, Ministry Secretary Indrani Sugathadasa and provincial ministers addressed the ceremony.