The President urged principals of schools to implement a program every year before the results of the scholarship examination are released to educate parents on how to accept the child without violence on the basis of passing or failing the aptitude test.

Speaking at the annual prize giving of the Kandy Model College yesterday (06th), the President said Sri Lanka's children face an undue stress because of the parents' belief that the Grade 05 Scholarship Examination is the only step towards determining the future of the child.

Recalling that in the recent past several incidents where the children were subjected to violence because of unsuccessful results at the Grade Five Scholarship examination, the President said the attention of all education authorities should be directed to this matter.

At the occasion, the President marking the World Teachers' Day, which falls on October 5, expressed his sincere appreciation to all teachers and commended their exemplary service to the society.Appreciating the commitment of teachers to create productive citizens through free education, the President said the government will take steps to grant the rights and privileges of the teaching profession as well as to bestow the highest honor the teachers deserve.

The President, who was warmly welcomed by the students, declared open the two-storied laboratory building and the three-stories classroom building constructed under the "Nearest School - Best School" program.The President also initiated the renovation of the Principal's official residence and other facilities.

The President presented awards and plaques to the students who excelled in the year 2017. He also observed the model farm at the school.Central Province Chief Minister Sarath Ekanayake, Principal R. M. Deshapriya Ratnayaka and the staff, parents and past pupils joined the occasion.