The present Government, which is working according to that policy has taken many steps to develop the rural schools, the President said.

He made these remarks participating in a ceremony to open the educational exhibition held at the St. Anthony’s College, Baddegama, organized in parallel to the opening of a technical section at the College as well as to mark the 100th Anniversary of the College on 1st July.

The President said that the belief of the parents that the best schools are in the cities created this competition among them and the Government is committed to provide best education for all the children in the country while implementing the  “Nearest School is the Best School” project.

Expressing his views regarding the development of the Baddegama city, he said that there is a necessity for a more comprehensive program regarding its town planning and beautifying the environment.

President Sirisena said that after consulting the people’s representatives in the area about the proposals in this regard, the Government is expected to allocate the necessary funds for this purpose.

After unveiling the plaque the President vested the newly built  two-storey Technological Section and Laboratory with the students and joined in presenting awards to the students who showed outstanding performance at a national and international level.

The Principal of the College H.G. Indrajith presented a memento to the President. Later the President opened the Educational and Trade exhibition.