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30 October 2024; Colombo – SriLankan Cares, the community development arm of SriLankan Airlines, in partnership with Galle Face Hotel and Ebert Silva Holidays, marked World Children’s Day on October 14, 2024, with a special programme for the children of Certified Schools, Ranmuthugala and Makola. The group of children enjoyed an activity-filled day that combined fun and learning, focusing on the travel and tourism industry of Sri Lanka.

The children travelled on a colourful double-decker coach, courtesy of Ebert Silva Holidays, from Colombo to Katunayake and back. The programme included a visit to SriLankan Airlines’ 747 hangar, an opportunity to board an aircraft and a tour of the Bandaranaike International Airport, which rounded off with a delicious lunch at the Palm Strip Restaurant. Once back in Colombo, the children enjoyed a festive tea party organized by the Galle Face Hotel, complete with music and dancing.

Saminda Perera, Head of Marketing of SriLankan Airlines, stated, “Children are our most precious asset, and at SriLankan Airlines, we believe in creating opportunities to nurture their wellbeing and potential. We collaborate annually with Galle Face Hotel and Ebert Silva Holidays for our Children’s Day project, and it’s heart-warming to see the joy we bring to children each year. Whether it’s seeing an aircraft or visiting the airport for the first time, or enjoying delicious food and music, these experiences are special for them.”

Rohan Fernandopulle, General Manager of Galle Face Hotel, stated, “We are delighted to have partnered with SriLankan Cares and Ebert Silva Holdings for this year’s Children’s Day initiative. It was an honour to host and inspire the future leaders of our country. We are deeply grateful to the schools for their invaluable support in allowing the children to be part of this celebration. Watching their eyes light up with possibility reminds us of the incredible potential within each of them. Together, we are nurturing dreams that will shape the future of Sri Lanka.”

Rajini de Silva Mendis, Chairperson of Ebert Silva Holidays, said, “We are delighted to have come together with our two gracious partners once again to offer children the future pillars of the nation, a splendid experience that gives them confidence to overcome challenges and motivation to dream big and set their goals high, with the sincere hope of seeing them become responsible and worthy citizens of our motherland.”

Peshala Abeysooriya, the Commissioner of the Department of Probation and Child Care Services (WP), commented on the programme stating, “It not only provided enjoyment to the children, but also a valuable educational experience. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to SriLankan Cares, Ebert Silva Holidays and Galle Face Hotel for helping to fulfil the dreams of these children.”

SriLankan Cares is dedicated to inspiring hope and creating opportunities for a bright future for the children of Sri Lanka. This event is one of many that SriLankan Cares initiates throughout the year to make a positive difference in the lives of children.