I will overcome any challenge for the sake of country & people: Maithri

President Maithripala Sirisena said that he will overcome any challenge for the sake of the country and its people. He further said that he assumed duties as the President to meet all those challenges and, he has the strength and the ability to face these challenges. He made these observations addressing school children at the Rivisada Central College in Mawanella, after opening its new Technical Laboratory yesterday. The President, who arrived at the school, was accorded a very warm welcome by the students. President Sirisena, after unveiling the plaque, declared open the new Laboratory. He also made an inspection tour of the new Laboratory. During the inspection tour, he inspected the Nenasala Center for Distance Learning, new Mathematics Lab, the Language Laboratory and Technical Laboratory. The President also engaged in a very cordial and friendly discussion with the students. President Sirisena further stated that he would give priority to provide the basic needs of every school in the island. He said that there are repots about schools even without sanitary facilities. ‘We will initiate a rapid programme to provide required basic needs, in order to facilitate children to be engaged in their studies,’ he said. The President pointed out that the priority should be given to skills development in the national education planning. He added most countries in the world have achieved higher development through a proper vocational skills education. President Sirisena stated an island-wide program will be implanted within the next few weeks to educate children over the need for prevention of drug menace, which is major threat to the society and preservation of environment. He also said a special program will be initiated to increase local food production in order to be self sufficient in food. This programme will be implemented after the forthcoming General Election.