'Lankans abroad must help War Heroes' children'

Priyanka Kurugala

'The majority of Sri Lankans are peace loving and hospitable. It is only a handful that create mischief and damage the country's image, Prime Minister D M Jayaratne said.

He was addressing a scholarships awarding ceremony at the Prime Minister's office last week.

The ceremony was organized by the Ranaviru Seva Authority. Funds were donated by Sri Lankan workers in Kuwait.

Thirty children belonging to families of Security Forces' personnel whose fathers were killed in action or were disabled, were granted scholarships.

Kuwait employee Gamini Wijeratna had organized the musical show Suramya Rathriya and collected funds for the scholarships.

Journalist Daya Lankapura is the coordinator of this programme.

"This type of programme will help children who lost their fathers in the war. It is the duty of Lankans living in other countries to help these children," the Prime Minister said.

"President Mahinda Rajapaksa is always concerned about families of Forces' personnel. A commemorative monument was built opposite Parliament to remember Forces' personnel who sacrificed their lives for the motherland," he said.

The President has also taken action to offer other needs, including houses and land to these families, the Prime Minister said.

"Children should also pay attention to their studies and develop their minds in a proper way. It is necessary to develop the mind and body to be happy. Consuming nutritious food is important for a healthy life. Children also need to develop spiritually. It is their duty to pay gratitude to individuals who offer such donations," he said.

Ranaviru Seva Authority deputy chairman R S Ariyapperuma said due to the sacrifices made by Forces' personnel, the people have the opportunity to lead peaceful lives.

Ranaviru Seva Authority project managing director H Ruberu Thanthirige also participated.