A special training workshop was held on 17th of May at the President’s Media Centre for officials overseeing the implementation of President’s Fund activities in Divisional Secretariats across the Western Province.
Organized by the President’s Media Division, the workshop aimed to enhance the decentralization of the President’s Fund at the divisional level.
Subject officers from all Divisional Secretariats in Colombo, Kalutara, and Gampaha districts participated in the programme, which focused on strengthening their practical skills and operational efficiency.
Media Advisor to the President, Chandana Sooriyabandara, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of strong public service and fostering trust between officials and the public.
Key training areas included information security in the computer system, handling of medical aid applications, and overcoming common challenges in the application process.
Participants received both theoretical and hands-on training in integrating the Fund’s digital procedures with the functions of their respective Divisional Secretariats.
President’s Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake underscored that the President’s Fund exists to serve the most vulnerable and that decentralization has significantly improved access for the public.
He stressed the need for continued collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure government programmes reach those in need, particularly patients requiring medical assistance.
Dr. Kumanayake also highlighted the importance of using the Fund’s annual allocation effectively to benefit the underprivileged.
According to Roshan Gamage, Secretary of the President’s Fund and Senior Additional Secretary to the President, over 1,000 applications have been registered via Divisional Secretariats, with about 40% from the Western Province.
He added that since the decentralization began on 7th of February 2025, approximately 80% of current applications are now being submitted through Divisional Secretariat offices.
The workshop concluded with the presentation of certificates of appreciation to participating officials.
Senior Assistant Secretaries to the President, P.H. Kolambage and P.R. Prasad Perera, Chief Accountant of the President’s Fund D.A.M. Wickramaratne, Assistant Secretary Ushani Rathnayake, and other staff members were also present at the event.
