Batticaloa: The third edition of the ‘Sarasavi Diriyo Abhiman’ scholarship programme was recently conducted at the Swami Vipulananda Institute of Aesthetic Studies of the Eastern University, with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presiding over the event. This initiative, managed by the President’s Fund, aims to provide educational support for students with disabilities attending state universities in Sri Lanka, demonstrating their resilience in pursuing academic goals despite physical challenges.
According to News.LK, the scholarship programme provides a one-time grant of Rs. 100,000 to each student with disabilities enrolled in state universities. The first two events took place in Colombo and Jaffna, with the final programme for the year concluded in the Eastern Province. At this recent event, 50 students from the Eastern University and South Eastern University were honoured, part of a larger initiative that has recognised nearly 400 students throughout the year.
During her address, Prime Minister Amarasuriya emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring no student is left behind in education. She expressed pride in the students’ determination and acknowledged the role of parents and teachers in their success. The Prime Minister outlined the government’s plan to enhance educational infrastructure, including the construction of hostels for 16,000 female students over three years, ensuring facilities accommodate students with disabilities.
Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne highlighted the evolution of the President’s Fund from a resource primarily accessible in Colombo to a nationwide initiative. He noted significant increases in applications and service accessibility, with the fund now supporting medical treatments at all hospitals and digitalising services across Divisional Secretariats.
Minister of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Sunil Handunnetti praised the government’s decision to extend financial support to university students with special needs, marking a shift from the fund’s previous focus on political beneficiaries to a people-centric approach. He underscored the relief this support provides to students facing academic challenges.
Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Roshan Gamage, reaffirmed the President’s Fund’s commitment to recognizing and supporting students with disabilities. He acknowledged the programme as a pioneering effort in Sri Lanka, ensuring ongoing financial assistance for university-bound students with disabilities.
The event was attended by various people’s representatives and state officials from the Eastern Province, further highlighting the programme’s significance and the government’s dedication to inclusive education.