President Ranil Wickremesinghe recently attended the DP Education event, where he underscored the importance of addressing the challenges faced by women, particularly in light of the ongoing economic crisis. The event, organized by DP Education and marked by the unveiling of three “Anti-Violence Global Gestures” handprints against sexual violence targeting women and girls in public spaces, served as a platform for advocacy and action.
In his keynote address at the Nelum Pokuna Theater in Colombo, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the swift action taken by the government to empower women. He announced the presentation of two bills to the Parliament aimed at promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. These bills, expected to be ratified in June, signify a significant step towards establishing a national policy focused on safeguarding women’s rights and preventing violations thereof.
Central to President Wickremesinghe’s address was the recognition of DP Education’s transformative role in reshaping education in Sri Lanka. He commended Mr. Dhammika Perera, the founder of DP Education, for his initiative against violence towards women and his dedication to enhancing educational opportunities for children across the country.
President Wickremesinghe reflected on the evolution of education, from traditional outdoor settings to modern classrooms equipped with advanced technology. He emphasized the importance of leveraging technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence, to ensure universal access to quality education for all children.
Moreover, the President stressed the significance of practical measures to combat violence against women. The unveiling of the “Anti-Violence Global Gestures” handprints symbolizes a commitment to fostering a culture of resistance against gender-based violence. President Wickremesinghe reiterated the government’s commitment to enacting legislation to address violence against women and promote gender equality.
The event also provided a platform for Mr. Dhammika Perera to share the vision and accomplishments of DP Education. Founded with the aim of providing educational resources to underprivileged children, DP Education has successfully impacted the lives of millions of students across Sri Lanka. Mr. Perera highlighted the foundation’s efforts in early childhood education and the integration of technology to nurture well-rounded individuals.
The presence of distinguished guests, including Speaker of the Parliament Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa, and various parliamentarians and diplomats, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing women’s empowerment and education in Sri Lanka.
President Wickremesinghe’s address at the DP Education event reflects a concerted effort by the government and civil society to address the multifaceted challenges faced by women in Sri Lanka. Through legislation, advocacy, and educational initiatives, there is a collective commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society where women can thrive and contribute to national development.
