Children should honour nation's feats - President

Rasika Somarathna in Ambalangoda

Children should be taught to appreciate the greatness of the nation and the country's proud achievements, both past and present, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said on Saturday. The President made these comments as Chief Guest at the annual prize giving of Dharmasoka College, Ambalangoda. He said a nation's achievements and love for the country should be instilled in the hearts of the children from a small age coupled with positive attitudes to help them face life with confidence.

As an example, President Rajapaksa referred to the defeat of terrorism which plagued the nation for 30 years, just four years after he assumed leadership. He said the country had the resilience to rise from the devastation of the 2004 tsunami within a very short time.

"The railway line close to this town from Peraliya was destroyed for 40 kms. We renovated this within a few months," he added.

President Rajapaksa pointed to the ongoing development in the country and added that the government has been able to provide equal opportunities and facilities to all areas.

Highlighting several examples, he also recalled that Sri Lanka had a proud past where our forefathers showcased their brilliance and determination on numerous instances.

"However, it is unfortunate to note that there are a few with ulterior motives who always want to highlight the negatives and not the positives of the country," he added.

The President while noting that the present government has given unprecedented facilities for education, advised children to make maximum use of these facilities.

As an example he pointed out that the computer literacy rate which was around five percent in 2005, improved to 45 percent due to enhanced facilities.

He told students to be innovative and consider education as a voyage of discovery where every day in school, the student would learn something new to deepen his understanding, sharpen his instincts and broaden his horizons.

"It is a journey in the course of which you would acquire the courage to conquer yourself and the world," he said.

Speaking about the school, President Rajapaksa said the institution was synonymous with the city Ambalangoda.

He said throughout its 100 year history (since 1913), the college produced many men and women of eminence, who have served the nation well.

A commemorative stamp to mark 100 years of the school was also issued at the event and a memento was also presented to the President.

Education Minister Bandula Gunawardene, Chief Minister and old boy of Dharmasoka College, Shan Wijeyalal de Silva and Southern Province Education Minister Chandima Rasaputra also spoke.

Deputy Speaker Chaminda Weerakkody, External Affairs Ministry Coordinating MP Sajin Vass Gunawardene, Education Ministry Coordinating MP Mohan Lal Grero, students, teachers, old boys and parents were present.