22 INFANTRY DIVISION TREATS CHILDREN ON THE 2023 INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S DAY

Troops of the 22 Infantry Division serving under the Security Force Headquarters- East organized special entertainment programmes for children at the 22 divisional area on 01 and 02 October 2023 on account of the International Children’s Day. On the conceptual guide line of Major General MKUP Gunaratne RSP ndu psc IG, the Commander, Security Forces - East, the events were organized under the instruction of Major General G M N Perera RWP RSP USP ndc, General Officer Commanding, 22 Infantry Division.

15 Battalion Sri Lanka Light Infantry conducted a World Children’s day celebration programme at Mollipothana Sinhala Maha Vidyalaya, school premises with an attendance of 375 children and 30 teachers. Many fun-filled activities, cultural dancing events were conducted as well as a taekwondo display presented by 15 SLLI troops, which were fully appreciated by the participants. Furthermore, offered lunch for all participants to the event and gift-awarded to school children. Moreover, 20 Battalion the Gajaba Regiment provided lunch and, entertainment with calypso music for the 80 students of the Parana Medawachchiya School.

5 (V) Regiment of Sri Lanka Artillery organized a celebration programme in Kanthale Base Hospital for 150 children living in the Kanthale area including 50 children of Other Ranks serving in the 22 Infantry Division area. The programme was conducted with the assistance of Pediatric Specialist Mrs. Thilakshi Madurapperuma and all staff of the children's ward at the hospital. It includes a children’s Art Exhibition followed by opening of wall paintings on corridor leading to the children's ward, opening of children’s library and a stage show conducted to perform children’s dancing and singing skills. Participated children were given valuable gift packs and snacks from the hospital and the Commander 222 Infantry Brigade, Commanding Officer 5(V) Sri Lanka Artillery, and Civil Affairs Officer of 222 Infantry Brigade were participated for the programme as guests.

All the programmes included various fun activities and treats for the children, including a tea party, special lunch, musical entertainment programmes, and a subsequent award of prizes to all of them. 221, 222, and 223 Infantry Brigades coordinated the event, with close supervision of the Brigade Commanders. Commanding Officers, Officers, and Other Ranks of the Battalions participated in the success of the events. Staff of the schools and parents of the children's also present at the programmes.