China donates language unit to Lumbini Vidyalaya

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

China gifted a Chinese language unit to Lumbini Vidyalaya, Colombo marking another gesture of its close ties with Sri Lanka.

'Confucius classroom' was opened by Education Minister Susil Premajayanth and the Director of Sinhala Service of China Radio International Von Siaothung..

The language centre is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art facilities in language teaching techniques. The centre is open seven days a week from 8.30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Not only students any interested party irrespective of age can follow the six month Chinese language program at the Confucius classroom where 30 participants are able to study simultaneously.

Presently along with English, French and German, Chinese is a major world language. "Therefore it is really a boon for Sri Lankans to have a chance to learn Chinese in a well-equipped, state of the art language training centre under the guidance of Chinese language experts.

It is clear that there is a trend to learn Chinese all over the world as China has advanced rapidly and is an economic powerhouse," Minister Premajayanth said.

The friendship between China and Sri Lanka reached a new peak during the regime of the late Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike as a result of the friendly policy of the then Government.

Owing to this situation China took steps to assist our country in various ways.

The B.M.I.C.H. stands as a lasting monument of Sino Lanka friendship.

"When it comes to the present day, mega projects such as Hambanthota harbour, coal power in Norochcholai and highways systems are being constructed under the Chinese assistance," the Minister noted.

The Confucius classroom is further evidence of the strong ties between the two countries. Moves are also under way to construct another four Confucius classrooms allowing many students to follow the Chinese language program, Director Sinhala Service, Von Siaothung said. "Students who follow these classes will be able to use the latest technology including multi-media technology" Director Siaothung said.

Ministers Rajitha Senaratne, Athauda Senaviratne, Governer Alavi Mowlana, the Principal of Lumbini Vidyalaya addressed the gathering.