President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has urged the Ministry of Sports and Sports Associations to work together on collaborative initiatives to enhance Sri Lanka’s international sporting success.
Speaking at a progress review meeting at the Presidential Secretariat on July 16, the President emphasized the need for structured and impactful programmes rather than isolated efforts like distributing sports equipment.
The meeting assessed the progress of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the National Youth Services Council, and the National Youth Corps.
The President was briefed on ongoing youth development projects across the country and called for a more strategic and long-term approach to sports development.
He highlighted that sports, as seen in developed nations, can yield not only social benefits but also significant economic value.
Particular attention was given to the “YOUTH CLUB” programme, with the President directing officials to establish modern, well-equipped vocational training centres to support school leavers and promote youth employment.
The President stressed the importance of achieving both physical and financial targets by the end of 2025 through efficient and results-driven implementation.
He emphasized the collective responsibility of all institutions under the Ministry to maximize the use of allocated resources.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Sunil Kumara Gamage, Deputy Minister Eranga Gunasekara, Presidential Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Ministry Secretary Aruna Bandara, and National Youth Services Council Chairman Attorney Supun Wijeratne, among other senior officials.
