'Sisu Udana Kusalatha Pranama' from People's Bank rewards top student achievers

State banking giant People's Bank recently held the 14th 'Sisu Udana Kusalatha Pranama' Scholarship presentation ceremony, honouring 51 top student achievers who had excelled at the 2006 G.C.E. Ordinary Level examination, on both the district and national level. The ceremony held at the Staff Training College of People's Bank, is conducted annually, in conjunction with the anniversary of the Bank.

The 51 youngsters, chosen according to results certified by the Department of Examinations, were recognized and rewarded for their outstanding performances, at the ceremony, in the form of 'Sisu Udana Kusalatha Pranama' scholarships. As such, the Bank has made a financial commitment to support them through their higher education, for a period of two years until the completion of their G.C.E. Advance Level examination, bolstering their confidence and providing them with financial stability.

The Chief Guest at the event, Mr. W. Karunajeewa, Chairman, People's Bank, said that as a Bank that took banking to the masses, People's Bank has always been committed to endeavours of this nature, supporting the creation of future leaders of Sri Lanka. He went on to add, "Saving is one of the most important aspects of life, and you too should emulate this habit by using this scholarship in the most productive manner, and add this to all the other forms of support you receive to become valuable citizens to our nation."

A corporate social responsibility drive by People's Bank, the awarding of 'Sisu Udana Kusalatha Pranama' scholarships was initiated in 1993. The aim of the program is to aid in the development of Sri Lanka, through making an investment in the future of the younger generation. The Bank has long-term goals of creating strong and inspiring future leaders, helping youngsters to reach for professionalism, and supporting them in their quest for knowledge to deal with the challenges of the future.

"People's Bank is committed to making a contribution to the educational sector and its programs, so that there is an educated and intelligent youth population that can shoulder the future responsibilities of Sri Lanka," maintained Mr. Asoka de Silva, Chief Executive Officer/General Manager, People's Bank. Furthermore, he said that since 1993, many of the students who received the 'Sisu Udana Kusalatha Pranama' scholarship had gone on to become respected professionals in various fields.

Making a special address to these students, Mr. Deepal Sooriyaarachchi, Managing Director of Eagle Insurance said that the honour they have thus received through this scholarship is of great value. He went on to state that in the future they will have to compete with others on a global scale, and that they should constantly challenge themselves to reach levels of excellence to achieve this.

Miss Hasini Rathsara Weeratunga of Devi Balika Vidyalaya, Colombo who was placed first in the national level thanked People's Bank for organizing this event, and stated that apart from the financial support, the scholarship was a way in which they were honoured by People's Bank. She hoped that all the students gathered there will go on to make similar contributions to society, in the future.

The event was attended by the corporate management and staff of People's Bank, and brought together students, their parents and the Principals of their respective schools, from many parts of the country. The ceremony also included entertainment programs presented by leading artists and students, making the ceremony a colourful one.