By Rushika Rodrigo

The Students’ Parliament of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya Kadawatha recently conducted its inaugural session at the historic Parliamentary Chamber of the Presidential Secretariat, under the patronage of the Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, Hemali Weerasekara.

Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya Kadawatha was given this opportunity in accordance with the Student Parliament programs that are collaboratively carried out by the Ministry of Education and the Presidential Secretariat, in line with the Department of Communication of the Parliament of Sri Lanka.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees Hemali Weerasekara stated that she was happy to be associated with this program because her daughter had also finished her study at this institution. She went on to say that the Student Parliament programs offer a chance to cultivate leadership skills from an early age and that, in addition to extracurricular activities, they also aid in instilling values that are vital to life.

Additionally, present at this event was Mr. Dharmasiri Gamage, Director General of Public Relations for the Presidential Secretariat, who explained that opportunities under the Presidential Fund have currently been expanded to guarantee that schoolchildren and individuals from all parts of the nation benefit from it.

Mr. M. Jayalath Perera, the Acting Director of Communication of Parliament and Director of Legislative Services, further expressed his opinions at the event, saying that the advice obtained from Student Parliament programs will serve as motivation to achieve in life. He also gave the students instruction on the roles and procedures of the legislature.

Joining the occasion, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Mr. Prasanna Chandit highlighted the functions of the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary.

The inaugural session of the Student Parliament then commenced with the the appointment and swearing-in of the Speaker, followed by the oath-taking of the Members of Parliament.

The event then included the award of certificates of participation to the members of the Student Parliament after which the the Student Parliament was formally adjourned. This was followed by the Student Prime Minister and other Ministers who shared their views and reflections on the event.

Concluding the event, Principal of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya Kadawatha, Mrs. Inoka Gunaratne expressed her gratitude, noting that the program not only enhanced student leadership skills but also provided a valuable opportunity for the students.

Assistant Director of the Presidential Secretariat, Major Nadeeka Dangolla, teachers of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya Kadawatha, as well as parents also participated in this occasion.