The uncivilized and indecent behaviors in the society should not be allowed to be a problem for the future of the children, he added. The government is committed to build the future of the children of the country in a safer way, he said.

The President made these remarks at the annual ‘Kepakaru’ scholarship award ceremony held yesterday (Jan. 14) at the Mahindarama Temple in Ethul Kotte. The scholarships are provided by Sri Lanka Nippon Educational and Cultural Center.

The President stated that the contribution of such private institutions is strength when the government is committed to strengthen the free education in the country. “Everybody should get together to perform their responsibilities for the country and the people, without waiting till the government does everything”, he said.

The Kepakaru scholarships program which was commenced with the aim of improving the Japan – Sri Lanka friendship, has been in function since 1986. It was founded by the Chief Sanga Nayaka of Sri Jayawardenapura of the Kalyani Samagri Maha Sanga Council of Kotte, General Secretary of the Nippon Educational and Cultural Center Ven. Meegasthenne Chandrasiri Thero.

President Sirisena extended his thanks for the assistance provided by the government of Japan for the development of every field in Sri Lanka.

He handed over 34 letters of the scholarship, symbolizing the provision of 1800 scholarship for the children of low income families.

Mahanayake of Kotte Kalyani Damma Maha Sanga Sabha Dr. Iththepane Dammalankara Thero, the General Secretary of the Nipon Educational and Cultural Center Ven. Meegasthenne Chandrasiri Thero, State Minister P. Radhakrishnan and the Deputy Minister Harsha de Silva also participated in this ceremony.