The All Island Essay Competition was held recently, organized by the Funday Times newspaper and sponsored by People's Bank. The best essays were evaluated and the Awards Ceremony was held on October 4 at the Peoples' Bank Staff Traning College Auditorium, D.R. Wijewardene Mawatha, Colombo 10.

At 12.30 p.m. the All Island winners arrived at the elected place. Lunch was provided to the winners by the People's Bank staff. After lunch, winners and their parents filed into the Auditorium. The winners were seated at the correct seats during the ceremony.

The Auditorium was decorated majestically with fresh lotus blooms, which filled the Auditorium strongly with their aroma. The front of the Auditorium was covered completely by an impressive yellow-coloured banner, which informed the spectators of the Awards Ceremony.

After the beginning of the ceremony at 2 p.m., the traditional oil lamp was lit. This was carefully done by the first place winner of Grade 8 & 9, and the other distinguished guests. After this event, the People's Bank song was sung at 2.35 p.m. After that, the Funday Times Editor did a welcome speech. Then the audience was addressed by People's Bank Chairman Mr. W. Karunajeewa. He mostly spoke about the experiences of his past life.

After an entertainment item was performed by the students of Yolande School, the prize giving of all the grades were held. It is my conclusion that this can be admitted as a very wonderful experience for everyone, especially children who can learn many things by listening to the speeches done by the wise adults.

I think this had been a very valuable experience for everyone.

By Ruwimal Pathiraja (9 years), St. Mary's College, Hambantota