Richard Pathirana commemoration today

Nipuni Wimalapala

The third year commemoration ceremony and a series of religious charity programmes to remember Dr. Richard Pathirana will be held on July 4 at Uluvitike Richard Pathirana Vidyalaya, Galle.

Late Dr. Pathirana was an excellent teacher, principal and a remarkable politician who has contributed much to the country's education and politics. He helped up lift education standards which has helped both children and teachers for many decades.

His teaching career spanned over 22 years and his service to Meepawala Amarasuriya Vidyalaya and Nagoda Royal College is especially remarkable. Youth Affairs and Skills Development Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said.

The minister said Dr Pathirana gained his primary education from Walipatha Primary School and attended Vidyaloka Vidyalaya for his secondary education. He was a graduate of the Peradeniya University.

"He entered politics in 1983 by winning the Akmeemana seat.

"He was a very enthusiastic member of Sri Lanka Freedom Party and ended up becoming a senior leader of the party.

"He contributed much by helping defeat the United National Party's 17 year rule.

He was an enthusiastic participant of "Padayathra", Janagosha" organized by President Mahinda Rajapaksa during that time.

He was a brave and intelligent politician who has contributed much to uplift the Sri Lankan politics.