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Published on: March 12, 2024 President Advocates for a Principled Education System at the “Sesquicentennial Banquet” of Wesley College President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the importance of education instilling resilience in children, encouraging them to confront challenges with unwavering principles. He made these remarks while attending the “Sesquicentennial Banquet” of Wesley College Colombo last night (11) at the Shangri-La Hotel Colombo as the chief guest.

President Wickremesinghe commended Wesley College Colombo for its pioneering role in nurturing individuals crucial for the nation’s development. He expressed the nation’s gratitude to Wesley College for its significant contributions.

Established in 1874 under the Methodist Missionary Education System during British colonial rule, Wesley College Colombo has served as an alma mater to numerous notable figures, including pioneers of Sri Lanka’s independence struggle, governors-generals, political leaders, businessmen, scientists and professors, who have made significant contributions to the nation.

The keynote address at the celebration was delivered by Prof. R. Somanathan, an alumnus of Wesley College, who is currently serving at the University of San Diego, USA. The theme of his address was “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Future of Learning and Teaching Methods.” The event also featured by colourful performances by veteran musicians including Alston Koch and the DeLanerolle brothers.

In recognition of the President’s presence at the anniversary celebration, he was honoured with a special commemorative gift and a book compiled on the 150th anniversary of Wesley College and its illustrious history.

During the speech, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the pivotal role Wesley College has played in shaping the nation’s leaders and fostering a spirit of resilience and courage among its students.

Reflecting on the historical significance of Wesley College, President Wickremesinghe lauded the school’s distinguished alumni who have left an indelible mark on the country’s history. He paid tribute to notable figures such as Former Principle Henry Highfield and distinguished alumnus of Wesley College including Sir Baron Jayatilaka and Sir Oliver Gunathilake, emphasizing their pivotal roles in Sri Lanka’s journey towards independence and nation-building.

President Wickremesinghe also acknowledged Wesley College’s commitment to producing well-rounded individuals equipped to tackle challenges and make meaningful contributions to society. He highlighted the importance of education beyond textbooks, encompassing sports, leadership and the exploration of emerging fields like artificial intelligence (AI).

In his address, he announced plans to promote AI education in schools, underscoring the government’s commitment to investing in AI research and development. He expressed a desire to support private schools, including Wesley College, that have historically played a vital role in the country’s education system.

Looking ahead, the President pledged to work closely with Wesley College and other educational institutions to navigate challenges and implement reforms aimed at improving the education system. He emphasized the need to prioritize the resumption of academic activities disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and enhance English language education in schools.

In closing, President Wickremesinghe reiterated his confidence in Wesley College’s continued contributions to Sri Lanka’s development and encouraged ongoing dialogue with Reverend Joseph to explore further opportunities for collaboration and innovation in education.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s address underscored the enduring legacy of Wesley College and its vital role in shaping the future leaders of Sri Lanka. His remarks reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting educational institutions and fostering a conducive environment for learning and innovation.

“Sesquicentennial Banquet” of Wesley College witnessed the presence of notable figures including the British High Commissioner in Sri Lanka H.E. Andrew Patrick, Chief Priest of the Methodist Church of Sri Lanka Rev. Ebenezer Joseph, Mrs. Barbara Easton, and Mr. Martin Easton representing the Methodist Church of UK. The gathering also included clergy members from various denominations such as Methodist, Anglican and Baptist Churches, as well as the management of Wesley College including Rev. Perry Brohier and his spouse. Among the attendees were the Principal of Wesley College Mr. Avanka Fernando, and Mr. & Mrs. Ian Karan, a prominent politician and businessman in Germany of Sri Lankan origin. Also present were Capt. Navin de Silva, the President of the Old Boys’ Association of Wesley College, along with numerous alumni and distinguished guests.

SriLankan Airlines should show operational and financial progress in the next six months, Minister of Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Minister Nimal Siripala said progress should be shown as the Government has provided necessary assistance by absorbing the USD 510 million outstanding debt by the national carrier.

SriLankan Airlines has faced severe criticism in the recent past due to the severe inconvenience caused to passengers as a result of operational issues.

However, based on a proposal by the President, as the Finance Minister, the government has allocated funds to cover US$ 510 million from the total US$ 1.2 billion debt that the airline owed to banks and other institutions, he said.

The minister said that accordingly, with an attractive financial balance sheet, SriLankan Airlines plans to undergo restructuring in the next six months.

Minister Nimal Siripala further said that unnecessary expenses of the airline must be cut down, while good financial discipline should be established in the company during the next 6 months.

Stating that administration officials and Trade Union representatives must work together to support this cause, he also warned that there will be instability in the jobs of nearly 6000 employees.

According to Lankadeepa newspaper, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva made the remarks during a special discussion held with the administration and trade union representatives of SriLankan Airlines today (Mar 11).

Chief secretary of the northwestern province Ranjith Ariyaratne has been removed from his position with immediate effect.

The Presidential Secretariat ordered his removal after inquiring into complaints and accusations leveled against him.

Ariyaratne has been accused of ignoring the orders and instructions by the provincial governor and paying no attention to issues of the public.

A replacement is expected on Friday.

Also a former postmaster general, Ariyaratne was appointed to the position by president Ranil Wickremesinghe on 03 January 2023.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe led the vibrant festivities of the 2024 IORA Day celebration at Galle Face Green today (10), underlining the imperative of “Ensuring a Sustainable Indian Ocean for Future Generations”. As Sri Lanka helms the Chairmanship of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), this event holds significant resonance.

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), comprising 23 Member States and 12 Dialogue Partners, stands as a crucial platform for fostering regional cooperation. Sri Lanka’s assumption of the Chair of IORA last year marked a pivotal moment, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spearheading the commemoration of the inaugural ‘IORA Day’ under Sri Lanka’s leadership.

The Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), established in 1997, is commemorating its 27th anniversary this year. Sri Lanka, recognized for its efforts to restore mangrove ecosystems, was recently honoured with the United Nations World Restoration Flagship Award.

Against this backdrop, with Sri Lanka emerging as a leading advocate for ocean conservation and sustainable development, hosting the celebration of “IORA” Day 2024 holds significant importance. The event witnessed the participation of over a thousand students engaging in various activities.

This year’s theme, “Sustainable Indian Ocean for Future Generations”, underscores the paramount importance of ocean conservation and awareness. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, amidst the festivities, actively engaged with school children participating in various educational activities, and perused stalls showcasing initiatives by IORA member states and government institutions.

The culmination of the celebrations at Galle Face Green in Colombo witnessed a rich array of events, including the recognition of Art competition winners, exhibitions of selected artwork, and an array of ocean-related educational stalls. Diplomatic Missions of IORA Member and Dialogue Partner States, alongside UN agencies based in Colombo, lent their presence to this momentous occasion.

President Wickremesinghe took the opportunity to interact with the enthusiastic students participating in the event’s activities. Additionally, he visited the stalls set up by the embassies of member countries of the association and explored exhibition booths established by government institutions, further enhancing the significance of the celebration.

In 2024, as part of the celebration of the 27th anniversary of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), captivating marine life shaped kites were released into the sky, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Additionally, all the schoolchildren present were given the unique opportunity to embark on a sea trip aboard the Sri Lanka Navy’s “Princess Lanka” boat, aimed at providing them with a deeper understanding of the Indian Ocean.

The event was attended by dignitaries including Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry, Minister of State Tharaka Balasuriya, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aruni Wijewardene, Secretary-General of IORA Dr. Salman Al Farisi, Ambassadors and High Commissioners of member countries, diplomatic officials, officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Priyantha Perera and other esteemed guests. Their presence added to the significance of the occasion, highlighting the importance of collaboration and cooperation within the Indian Ocean region.

PMD

President Ranil Wickremesinghe appointed Mr. L. Ilangovan as the new Chief Secretary of the Northern Province. The appointment letter was signed by the Secretary to the Presidential Mr. Saman Ekanayake, and the official handover took place today (12) at the Presidential Secretariat.

Mr. Ilangovan, a distinguished officer of the Sri Lanka Administrative Service, has previously served in various ministries in the Northern Province and held the position of Northern Province Governor’s Secretary. Prior to his appointment as the Chief Secretary, he served as the President’s Additional Secretary for Northern Province Development at the Presidential Secretariat.

Meanwhile, Ms. Deepika K. Gunaratne was appointed as the new Chief Secretary of the Wayamba Province. Her appointment letter was handed over by President’s Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake at the Presidential Secretariat today. Ms. Deepika K. Gunaratne has previously served as the Secretary to the Governor of the Southern Province.

The National Water Supply and Drainage Board announces challenges in maintaining continuous water supply due to the ongoing dry weather and the resulting increase in daily water demand.

According to Anoja Kaluarachchi, Deputy General Manager of the NWSDB, some areas have experienced limited water supply or low water pressure.

The Board has also established a hotline for residents to lodge complaints regarding water supply issues.

On a positive note, Kaluarachchi added that the temporary salt barrier to prevent saltwater intrusion at the Ambatale and Biyagama water pumping stations has been completed.

A newly appointed Ambassador and a High Commissioner to Sri Lanka presented their credentials to President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the President’s House this morning (12).

Accordingly, His Excellency Mr. Paitoon Mahapannaporn, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Sri Lanka and His Excellency Major General (R) Faheem Ul Aziz, HI (M) the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka presented their credentials to President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Minister of Foreign Affairs President’s Counsel Ali Sabry and Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake were also present at this event.

In a ceremony held at the District Secretariat Auditorium, the government returned ownership of lands to rightful owners in the Jaffna peninsula on 10 March 2024. This marks the 24th consecutive release of lands previously occupied by the military.

A total of 109.56 acres were returned, including five plots in Jaffna District and seven in Kilinochchi District. Currently, only 0.5% of lands remains occupied by the military, deemed essential for maintaining normalcy and security in the area.

The release of lands is part of an ongoing effort by the Sri Lankan government to return occupied lands to their rightful owners. The process is carried out under the guidance of the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu and the supervision of the Commander of the Security Forces - Jaffna, Major General Chandana Wickramasinghe.

Hon. Sagala Rathnayake, the Chief of Staff to the President and National Security Advisor, participated in this historical event as the Chief Guest. Senior Military Officers, overlooking District Secretaries of Jaffna and Kilinochchi, and government agents of both districts were present during the ceremony.

Minister of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation and Irrigation Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi revealed that the Ministry of Finance has granted approval to deploy 4,500 multi-tasks development officers to aid elephant-fence conservation efforts within the Ministry of Wildlife.

The minister also stated that the demarcation of forest boundaries, which is part of the project aimed at increasing the country’s forest coverage to 32% of the total land area, is anticipated to be finalized this year.

Minister of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation and Irrigation Pavithradevi Wanniarachchi made these remarks during her participation in a news conference held at the Presidential Media Centre today (11), focusing on the theme ‘Collective path to a Stable Country’.

The Minister further commented that the International Day of Forests falls on March 21.

‘Concurrently, efforts are underway to distribute one plant to each household across the island, with forest extension officers being deployed for this purpose. A program has already been initiated to boost forest population while safeguarding water catchment areas. This program, commencing from Ratnapura district, is aimed to be extended nationwide.

Additionally, the demarcation of forests is slated for completion this year in connection with the initiative to raise the forest coverage to 32% of the total land area. This falls under the purview of the Department of Forest Conservation within our Ministry.

Furthermore, Uma-oya has achieved successful completion of the first phase. This phase enables the provision of new water to 20,000 acres of land. Test-level rehearsals are underway to supply 45 MCM (million cubic meters) of drinking water to the Lower Uma-oya area and to generate 120 MW (megawatts) of hydropower. Notably, 120 megawatts of hydropower generation are also set to be integrated into the national power system.

Furthermore, 7,500 hectares have been equipped with irrigation facilities for vegetable and fruit farming through the Minipe anicut project during Yala and Maha season. To achieve this, 3.5-metre Minipe anicut has been constructed, and a canal spanning 74 kilometres to transport water has been fully prepared. Approximately 15,500 families stand to benefit from these developments.

Additionally, preparations are underway to supply water to 350 small tanks and 7 medium-sized tanks situated 90 kilometres northwest of the Wa-Madilla Reservoir through the Northwest Canal. A two-kilometre tunnel is set to be built within the canal, alongside renovations planned for two main tanks. This initiative aims to furnish safe irrigation water and 10 MCM of drinking water to 75,000 families.

Furthermore, a 96-kilometre canal is currently under construction, stretching from the Moragahakanda Reservoir to Hurulu Lake and Mahakanadarava, aimed at transporting irrigation water to the North Central Province. This ambitious project includes a 28-kilometre tunnel. Once completed, it will provide safe water facilities to 2,300 hectares of land and benefit 175,000 families.

Additionally, the canal will have the capacity to supply water to 1,300 small tanks, while also facilitating the provision of 40 MCM (million cubic meters) of drinking water.

Additionally, the Ministry of Finance has granted approval for the assignment of 4,500 multi-tasks development officers to the Wildlife Ministry for elephant fence conservation. It is important to note that no new employees will be recruited for this purpose. Furthermore, the approved multi-purpose development officers are already engaged in elephant fence conservation efforts.

State Minister for Education Arvindh Kumar said that reform entails advancing the General Certificate of Education Advanced Level exam to Grade 12, preceding Grade 13, and advancing the General Certificate of Education Ordinary Level exam, currently held in Grade 11, to Grade 10.

He made this statement during the media briefing at the Presidential Media Centre, held under the theme “Collective Path to a Stable Country.”

He added that the government is poised to introduce a “Pre-Grade” program before Grade One, recognizing the cognitive abilities of today’s children and their rapid learning potential.

State Minister Kumar said that as part of enhancing the education sector, the government plans to increase the number of zonal education offices from around 100 to 120, facilitating better governance and oversight.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe convened a crucial party leader’s meeting at the Presidential Secretariat today to deliberate on the IMF proposals.

The meeting saw the participation of various stakeholders, including TNA Parliamentarian M. A. Sumanthiran.

During the discussions, Secretary to the Treasury Mahinda Siriwardena provided insights into the ongoing negotiations with bilateral creditors, commercial creditors, and ISBs, with an optimistic outlook towards completing the process by the end of June this year.

Notably, MP Sumanthiran raised pertinent concerns regarding the lack of published technical assistance reports of the IMF which is an analysis as to why certain recommendations are made, which is a necessity for the publication of analytical data to inform parliamentary deliberations.

President Wickremesinghe, acknowledging the importance of transparency, assured that the government would release the data to the TNA and Parliament, facilitating informed debate and decision-making.

Furthermore, Central Bank Governor highlighted the government’s efforts in adhering to the recommendations outlined in the governor’s diagnostic report, emphasizing the commitment to a structured roadmap for implementation.

President Wickremesinghe affirmed the government’s willingness to make these technical assistance reports available to the members of parliament and invited Mr. Sumanthiran and other Opposition members to attend a meeting and engage with the IMF to further discuss the proposals.

In response, MP Sumanthiran expressed his readiness to participate constructively in the dialogue, pledging support for constructive measures while highlighting areas that warrant attention and rectification.

The initiative undertaken by President Wickremesinghe underscores the government’s proactive approach to fostering transparency, accountability, and bipartisan cooperation in navigating crucial economic decisions for the benefit of all citizens.

Present at the meeting with President Ranil Wickremesinghe were Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardane, Leader of the House Susil Premajayantha, State Ministers of Finance Shehan Semasinghe and Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, Governor of the Central Bank Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe, and Secretary to the Treasury Mahinda Siriwariwardena, representing the government. Representing the Opposition TNA Parliamentarian M.A. Sumanthiran attended the meeting.

Source: PMD

An IMF mission called on Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Finance Ministry in Colombo.

During the meeting between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the IMF team at the Finance Ministry, Peter Breuer, the Senior Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, emphasized that the IMF program is exhibiting promising signs of efficacy, translating into tangible outcomes.

He commended the authorities for their unwavering commitment to the program’s implementation, noting that such dedication is instrumental in driving positive change.

Breuer further expressed his satisfaction at witnessing the economy starting to turn around, underscoring the significance of this progress.

This statement resonated with both President Wickremesinghe and the IMF team, highlighting the collective efforts and collaboration that have contributed to Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.

Against the backdrop of Breuer’s positive assessment, President Wickremesinghe reiterated his government’s steadfast commitment to sustaining the momentum and advancing the nation’s economic agenda.

This acknowledgment of progress underscores the shared vision between Sri Lanka and the IMF in fostering economic stability and growth. As discussions progressed, President Wickremesinghe and the IMF team delved into various aspects of Sri Lanka’s economic performance, focusing on fiscal stability, structural reforms, and future outlook. Their exchange of insights and strategies underscored the importance of continued collaboration and proactive measures in navigating challenges and fostering sustainable economic development.

In conclusion, the meeting between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the IMF team at the Finance Ministry today highlighted the positive outcomes of Sri Lanka’s engagement with the IMF program. Breuer’s remarks served as a testament to the collective efforts and commitment towards achieving economic prosperity, further reinforcing the optimism surrounding Sri Lanka’s economic trajectory.

Source: PMD