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UN & Japanese embassy supports Malayaha Teachers’ Research Conference (Pics)

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The United Nations in Sri Lanka and the Embassy of Japan jointly supported the Malayaha Teachers’ Research Conference, held on 27 and 28 January 2025. Commemorating the 200th anniversary of the Hill-country Tamil community’s arrival in Sri Lanka, the event celebrated their resilience and contributions while addressing pressing challenges faced by the community.

Organized by the Law and Society Trust in partnership with the Young Researchers Network, the conference brought together educators and young researchers from the Hill-country Tamil community. Over the past year, this initiative has cultivated a network of young teachers and researchers, predominantly women, who have been trained by senior academics to develop research on key issues including land rights, education access, employment, and gender equality.

The conference, which was attended by key stakeholders including the Coordinating Secretary to the Minister of Education, Higher Education and Vocational Education, showcased research that delves into the socio-economic challenges affecting the Hill-country Tamil community, including the ongoing impacts of Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. It served as a platform for dialogue, aiming to foster sustainable solutions and broader social change, particularly through improvements in education, housing, and working conditions.

“The Hill-country Tamil community exemplifies resilience, yet systemic barriers continue to hinder their progress. This conference is a vital step toward empowering this community through education and actionable research,” said Marc-André Franche, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka. “Through collaboration, we can ensure sustainable development that truly leaves no one behind.”

The Embassy of Japan emphasized its shared commitment with the United Nations to fostering resilience and inclusive growth. Mr. Kamoshida Naoaki, Deputy Head of Mission of the Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka stressed the importance of human security and the empowerment of vulnerable communities including their access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. 

Both the United Nations and the Embassy of Japan reiterated their commitment to addressing the socio economic challenges faced by the hill country community and its sustainable development.  

“This participatory research initiative by young teachers and researchers will provide ideas for the continued development of education in the Hill Country. This includes support for educational infrastructure, training facilities for teachers, and relief to school children, particularly amidst the economic crisis,” said Dr. Ahilan Kadirgramar, a Senior Researcher supporting Young Researchers Network.The Malayaha Teachers’ Research Conference is a testament to the power of collaboration and grassroots leadership in driving sustainable development. By empowering young researchers and educators, the initiative lays the groundwork for lasting improvements within the Hill-country Tamil community.

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Islandwide operation against child begging

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Child beggars

A special operation has been launched by the Bureau for the Investigation of Abuse of Children and Women and the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA).

The operation was conducted across multiple police divisions including Colombo North, Colombo South, Colombo Central, Nugegoda, Gampaha, Panadura, Kelaniya, Negombo, Mount Lavinia, Kalutara, Tangalle, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Kurunegala, Chilaw, Ratnapura, Galle, and Matara.

According to the police media division, the operation has rescued 21 minors found begging or selling goods in unsafe conditions.

They have been placed under protective care, the statement adds.

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Notice for landowners over uncultivated land

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The Department of Agrarian Development has issued a notice to landowners with uncultivated land, requesting them to submit reasons for non-cultivation within the next 02 weeks.

Commissioner General – Rohana Rajapaksha highlighted that over 120,000 acres of land, which should have been cultivated, have been abandoned.

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All President’s Fund services go online from today

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All services provided by the President’s Fund to the public will be available through an online system, from today (June 21).

The acceptance of applications for medical assistance under the President’s Fund through Divisional Secretariats island wide commenced on February 07.

Following the successful implementation of that initiative, preparations have now been completed to expand the digital system to include all other services offered by the Fund.

Accordingly, the public will be able to apply online via any Divisional Secretariat across the country for a wide range of services provided under the President’s Fund. These include assistance for poverty alleviation, provision of educational scholarships, recognition of students demonstrating academic excellence, support for individuals with special needs, relief assistance for children affected by wild elephant conflict, recognition of individuals for their national service or contributions to the country, Emergency and disaster relief.

As a result, citizens across Sri Lanka, especially those outside Colombo can conveniently access the services of the President’s Fund without having to travel long distances.

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