Mahapola, tower of strength for students

Raja WAIDYASEKERA Tissamaharama special corr.

The Mahapola scholarship program paves the way for the students of lower income families to obtain higher education, as such it has become a tower of strength for students, Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Bandula Gunawardena said at Beliatta Ruhunu Vijayaba Vidyalaya opening the 254th Maha Pola on October 14.

The Minister said the school was set up after the tsunami tragedy at the request of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Plan International was instrumental in setting up at a cost of Rs. 70 million. It was this school that created the student who achieved the first place in the island in year five scholarship examination obtaining 196 marks.

The Mahapola educational and trade fair was not held for four years due to the war and security situation. Port and Civil Aviation Minister Chamal Rajapaksa said the extension of the railway line upto Beliatta will enhance the economic and financial situations of the residents.