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Teachers’ unions end hunger strike on Basil R’s assurances
View(s):The 20 independent teachers’ unions whose members were on a hunger strike against proposals regarding Education in presidential candidate Maithripala Sirisena’s manifesto, ended their strike on Jan.6, following the visit there of Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa.
Minister Rajapaksa assured the members of the trade unions headed by Sri Lanka Independent Teachers’ Association (SLITA) president Mrs Vasantha Handapangoda that President Mahinda Rajapaksa, following his victory, will ensure that free education is in no way harmed.
Education Minister Bandula Gunawardena who was also present, said that teachers had nothing to fear as Maithripala Sirisena will never reach a position to hold responsibility over the country’s youth, and that, President Rajapaksa will, as long as he lives, ensure the right of the children to receive a good education.
The hunger strike lasted from Jan. 2-6. On Jan. 6, many had gathered near the Education Ministry to mark the end of the strike, including Western Province Chief Minister Prasanna Ranatunge.
At the end of the hunger strike, SLITA president, Mrs Handapangoda had to be hospitalised.