First SVAB Pre-school in East Opened

The Seva Vanitha Army Branch (SVAB) sponsored first pre-school in the East was declared open Monday (24) morning at the 3 Sri Lanka Army Ordnance Corps camp premises at Minneriya Army cantonment.

Mrs Manjulika Jayasuriya, President, SVAB, the livewire behind the expansion of educational opportunities among children of War Hero families with the support of her organization, graced the occasion as Chief Guest for the opening. This is the 8th pre-school to be run by the SVAB.

A special feature of this SVAB pre-school is that it provides learning facilities to children in both military and civil sector families. Generally, SVAB run pre-schools are reserved for children of Army or other service families. 

The day’s agenda with religious rites, unveiling of the plaque, lighting of the traditional oil lamp, ribbon cutting and auspicious boiling of milk and enrolment of the first child to the Minneriya Viru Kekulu Pre-school and the Day Care Centre, marked the ceremonial and colourful opening  as kids, parents, officers, SVAB members and soldiers looked on.  

Mrs Jayasuriya at the auspicious minute enrolled the first child to the pre-school amidst cheering and blessings as some 42 kids with their parents lined up to receive their place in the new school. Members of the Maha Sangha invoked blessings on the project and chanted Seth Pirith. Mrs Jayasuriya on arrival was warmly received and conducted to the venue in a procession.

The pre-school complex consists of a play ground, sports equipment and all other accessories. Parents going for employment are able to leave their kids at this place during day time until they return from work. A large gathering of parents, invitees and members of the public attended the opening ceremony.