In conjunction with the School Cricket Development Program, the distribution of cricket equipment to schools in the Southern Province was held yesterday (June 18) at the Galle District Secretariat under the patronage of Deputy Minister of Sports Sugath Thilakaratne.

It is hoped that a foundation will be laid for the creation of a strong national cricket team. Side wickets and cricket equipment were provided to selected new (currently non-cricket-playing) schools in the Southern Province.

Officials of the Sports Development Department, officials of the Galle District Secretariat, principals of several selected schools in the Southern Province, teachers and school students participated in this event.

Participating in this event, the Deputy Minister of Sports said that it is essential for all school students to engage in some form of sport, as this can help develop a healthy child full of human virtues.

The Deputy Minister of Sports said that it is very important to maintain a balance between education and sports, without giving up sports even under minimal facilities, and that sports are very important to maintain a strong mental level and a light mind.

Speaking about the need to provide extra time for sports during school hours and that it is very important to develop sports targeting school children to make the future generation a strong and healthy generation, the Deputy Minister further said that as the current government, all necessary measures will be taken to develop sports and create a sports culture in the country.