Thera trains soldiers on vocationals

by Ananda Kannangara

The presentation of certificates to 500 disabled soldiers who underwent vocational training at the "Lakviru Sevana Vocational Training Centre" will be held on June 6, at `Temple Trees' under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapakse.

The Lakviru Sevana Vocational Training Centre was set up by Ven. Elle Gunawansa Thera in June 2001 to train disabled soldiers in vocational training. He told the Sunday Observer that he was satisfied with the progress of the vocational training centre.

The Thera said nearly 1,000 soldiers had been trained and they could proudly stand on their feet again. "In my several visits to the North and East I met physically handicapped but mentally fit youth and I wanted to do something for them.

In the centre we train them in IT, typing, dressmaking, hair dressing, making shoes and bags, cookery, landscaping and many. Every course will be for six months and we also guide them for job opportunities", the thera said. The centre would also provide vocational training for the children of soldiers who were disabled and killed in the war. They have already commenced a scholarship scheme for soldiers' children.