Hon. Speaker (Dr.) Jagath Wickramaratne stated that a politician is a figure capable of steering the nation towards a positive direction and encouraged students to aspire to become such leaders in the future. He made these remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the Student Parliament of Kolonnawa Girl’s College, held at the Presidential Secretariat on February 11th, 2025.
The Speaker highlighted that politicians have often been perceived as corrupt figures, which is a misconception that needs to be corrected. He emphasized that the legislature should consist of ethical individuals and that such future leaders should emerge from among students. He further urged the students to commit themselves to becoming leaders who win the hearts of the people.
Hon. Deputy Speaker of Parliament, (Dr.) Rizvie Salih, who was also present, encouraged students to strive in becoming law-abiding citizens. He further emphasized that instead of becoming traditional politicians focused solely on electoral gains, students should aim to be ethical leaders who work for the betterment of future generations.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary General of Parliament, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera, provided an introduction to the functions and processes of Parliament. She pointed out that the current Parliament has the highest female representation in its history, which sends an encouraging message to future women leaders. She also highlighted that Sri Lanka gained global recognition when Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the world’s first female Prime Minister and given that the current Prime Minister is also a female; it demonstrates that there are no gender barriers preventing these students from becoming future leaders. Furthermore, she emphasized that the Student Parliament serves as a valuable platform for developing leadership skills.
During the event, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, Mr. K.M.N. Kumarasinghe, provided an overview of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program. He elaborated on the responsibilities of children in contributing to a better nation.
Parliament’s Director Legislative Servises / Director Communication (Acting), Mr. M. Jayalath Perera, also addressing the students, emphasized that initiatives like the Student Parliament play a crucial role in shaping future leaders.
Kolonnawa Girls College Principal S.H.J. Mrs. Balagalla gave her comments and pointed out that it is a very valuable opportunity for the children to be able to get this experience from such a historical place that has been the Parliament of this country for decades.
Then the students of Kolonnawa Girls College Student Parliament carried out the inaugural session of the Student Parliament thereafter.
Additionally, Hon. Speaker and other distinguished guests awarded certificates to the participating students.
This event was part of a series of Student Parliament programs jointly organized by the Presidential Secretariat and the Public Outreach Division of the Communications Department of the Parliament of Sri Lanka.
The event was also attended by the Assistant Secretary General of Parliament Mr. Hansa Abeyratne, Major Nadeeka Dangolla, Assistant Director at the Presidential Secretariat, and Ms. Buddhini Ramanayake, Manager of the Public Outreach Division of the Communications Department of Parliament, along with other officials.
