Recalling the hardships he endured in his school life by having to walk miles and miles to school, the President said although he reminisces the sweet memories of the bitter experience he gained during school education, he is not prepared to hand down it to the future generation.

"Though I happily recall incidents of my school life with hardships experience by walking miles and miles, I am not ready to allow future generations of children to suffer such hardships," the President said.

"Therefore, my endeavor is to ensure that similar facilities and opportunities are given to every child in town as well as in village for better education," he stated.

President Sirisena made these remarks at 150th anniversary celebration of St. Benedict College, Kotahena held on Friday (July 10). The President who arrived there was ceremonially received and escorted by the students of the college.

The President said he would create an education system in which the children can win their future through knowledge, ability and skills.

He pointed out the skill development education is as important as the knowledge-based education. He pointed out that every country in the world that proceeded towards development has implemented such educational policies.

A first day cover and a stamp issued for 150th anniversary celebration were presented to the President at this occasion.

The President also planted a Na sapling in the college premises to mark the 150th anniversary of the college.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, former Archbishop of Colombo Oswald Gomez and Principal of St. Benedict College Mr. Janaka Fonseka were among those participated at this ceremony.