'Future Minds of Jaffna' attracts over 100,000

Dhaneshi YATAWARA in Jaffna

Over 100,000 people from all parts of the Jaffna peninsula have visited the Industrial and Educational exhibition 'Future Minds of Jaffna - 2008' by yesterday.

According to records at the entrance around 17,000 people have participated during the first day, and by the next day, the count rose to 95,000 by late afternoon and night.

Over 100,000 people were present at the carnival at the Jaffna Central College grounds. Electric appliances were sold by leading Colombo based companies including Abans while telecommunication companies - Mobitel and Dialog, received a heavy demand.

All traders are selling their goods at the same rate as in other parts of the country.

Entertainment programs are also included in the carnival for children and adults. Merry-go-round, motorcycle rides in deathwell and the play train were favourites.

Local artistes and several south Indian artistes performed at the late night show which was well received.

South Indian artistes performed at the show as a result of the coordinating efforts of Social Services and Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda.

The demand for the benefits at the exhibition is growing higher each day. Book stalls, I.T. education stalls, and the Nenasala IT centre was packed with people, specially youth.

Co-ordinating officer of Jaffna Technical College Career Guidance Unit Gayathri Sabaratnam said they are trying to find avenues of employment in other parts of the country for their students as job opportunities are limited in the peninsula.

"I'm extremely satisfied with the immense success we have achieved so far. Creating a safe environment for the people to enjoy their lives is one of the top most challenges for us. In my view we have succeeded in meeting the challenge," Jaffna Security Forces Commander Major General G. A. Chandrasiri said.