President at Visakha Vidyalaya Prize Day:

‘Worthy citizens don’t run down their country abroad’

Sandasen MARASINGHE

President Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday that to make statements condemning one’s own motherland abroad, was not a feature of a worthy citizen.

He made this observation speaking as the chief guest at the prize giving 2010 of Visakha Vidyalaya, Colombo. President Rajapaksa said that the younger generation should act responsibly when they grow, preserving the country’s good name.

He added that the nation should also hold morals in esteem along with education.

The President added that most Western countries have neglected this fact and added that this was clear by the statements made by their leaders.

He said Sri Lanka is among the top most countries that enable women to secure a good position in the society, according to international research.

He added that most developed countries are far behind Sri Lanka in this regard.

President Rajapaksa said that Sri Lankan women make a significant contribution to the national economy and they are equally doing well even in tertiary education. He added that women should also be well equipped to shoulder the responsibilities of society.

He said that all parents wish their daughters to grow up with good morals and character. The President said that like a father, he requests the daughters to grow up in line with the advice of the Buddha. Education Minister Bandula Gunawardena, Visakha Vidyalaya Principal Sandamali Aviruppola, former Principals, and Zonal Education directors were also present on the occasion.