Deputy Minister of Defence Visits SERRIC to Assess Special Needs Education and Childcare Initiatives

The 'Senehasa' Education, Resource, Research, and Information Centre (SERRIC) is a specialized childcare institution established by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Ranaviru Seva Authority (RSA). Its core mission is to provide care and support for children with special needs, helping them to pursue their dreams and aspirations. SERRIC offers daytime programs for the children of military personnel, civil employees, and members of the Police and Civil Security Departments.

Last Friday (31 October) the Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), accompanied by the Parliamentarian and the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Council of Visually Handicapped Graduates, Mr. Sugath Wasantha De Silva visited the SERRIC in Colombo.

The visit commenced with an observational tour of the facilities, allowing guests to witness firsthand the innovative educational environment and its inclusive learning methodologies followed by a comprehensive briefing by Brigadier Upendra Karunarathna, Commandant of SERRIC.

A central feature of the event was a series of heartfelt performances presented by the children. These activities directly reflected the Centre's unwavering dedication to fostering development and providing exceptional special education.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Minister expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the SERRIC staff for their dedicated service towards the well-being of children with special needs. He further stated that special measures will be implemented in consultation with the relevant ministries, including Education, Health, and Indigenous Medicine, as well as other stakeholders and subject experts, to ensure comprehensive and sustainable development of services for children with special needs.

Furthermore, the Deputy Minister gave his fullest attention to the pressing issues presented by both staff and parents, instructing the relevant officials to identify and implement effective solutions without a delay.

During a special deliberation, Hon. MP Sugath Wasantha De Silva commended the exceptional facilities and dedicated staff serving children with special needs. He admired the profound culture of 'Loving-Kindness' embodied by the institution and acknowledged the government's steadfast support for these children.

He also noted that the government is taking concrete steps by developing a new policy action plan, backed by a robust bill dedicated to the disabled community. Specific funds have been earmarked to improve facilities and expand essential care services. This commitment represents a significant move toward a more accessible and supportive society for everyone.

The Additional Secretary Defence Services, Chiefs of Staff of Army and Air Force, Director of Nonformal and Special Education, Ayurveda commissioner of Western Province, the Vice Chairman of the RSA and several senior tri forces officers were also present at the occasion.