Improve knowledge on int'l affairs

Education Minister tells students:

by Ananda KANNANGARA

Education Minister Bandula Gunawardane recently called upon schoolchildren to expand their knowledge on international affairs in addition to the general school education. He said developing relationships with schoolchildren of other countries from a younger age is vital to enhance diplomatic relationships.

The Minister made these remarks to a group of schoolchildren who had obtained the highest marks in the island at the 2010 Grade Five scholarship examination.

Six of the highest scorers got an opportunity to attend the 23rd Asian Pacific Children's Convention (APCC) in Japan from July 15 to July 27. Minister Gunawardane told the Sunday Observer that the APCC meeting is held annually in Japan to develop friendship between communities of various countries.

The Minister also stressed the importance of students gaining knowledge of international affairs as it will help today's younger generation to maintain sound diplomatic friendships in the future.

Students Sanuja Edirisinghe, Yasanka Premaratne, Lakith Navodya, Kalani Pabasara, Dharani Balendra and Fathima Haseena received air tickets to attend the APCC.