The President made these remarks at a ceremony held in Jaffna Central College grounds Yesterday (Feb. 22) to officially inaugurate the 9th National Scout Jamboree.

“To unite the people of the country, we should first unite the children of the country. The Scout Moment is fulfilling a comprehensive responsibility on this regard”, the President said. “It helps strengthening of the reconciliation process. It also builds peace and reconciliation and also a society without fraud, corruption and fear by alleviating hatred”, the President further stated.

The President was warmly welcomed by the students, teachers and the people of Jaffna at the Jaffna Central College grounds. Scouts parade and several cultural shows were held at this event.

The President distributed awards to those who dedicated to build up the scouts movement.

This is the first time a National Jamboree is being held in the Northern Province. The event also coincides with 100 years of scouting in Jaffna. The theme of the Jamboree is “Friendship & Understanding”. Around 8,000 scouts along with their Scout Masters from all the districts of Sri Lanka are participating. Around 200 foreign scouts and leaders from Nepal, India, Malaysia and Bangladesh too are taking part. The Jamboree will be held until February 26.

Northern Province Chief Minister C.V. Wigneshwaran and newly appointed Governor Reginald Cooray too were among those who attended.