First Skills Development and Day Care Centre for children with disabilities opens in Trincomalee

Sri Lanka’s first “Skills Development and Day Care Centre” for children with disabilities was inaugurated yesterday (17) in the Kinniya Divisional Secretariat Division, Naduuttu Grama Niladhari Division, Trincomalee. The initiative is part of the government’s “Prosperous Country – Beautiful Life” policy, under the chapter “Unhindered Social Life – Equitable Access,” which seeks to build an inclusive society ensuring equal opportunities for all. The Department of Social Services, under the Ministry of Rural Development, Social Security, and Community Empowerment, has planned to establish 25 such centres across all administrative districts. Under the 2026 budget, Rs. 250 million has been allocated to construct 10 centres in Trincomalee, Ampara, Mullaitivu, Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Galle, Matara, and Hambantota. The Trincomalee centre is the first to be opened, with ministers and officials presiding over the ceremony. The district is home to around 280 children with disabilities, including 100 in Kinniya. The new centre can serve up to 100 children, with transport provided by the Lanka Transport Board to ease the burden on parents and guardians. Appointment letters were also handed to preschool teachers, caretakers, and office assistants to staff the facility. Speaking at the event, Minister Dr. Upali Pannila emphasized that the government’s priority is to ensure the well‑being of all citizens regardless of race, religion, language, or disability. He highlighted the importance of empathy in social service and noted that the programme is being implemented under the concept of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Ten centres are planned for this year, with another 15 to follow next year, ensuring coverage across all 25 districts. The opening ceremony was attended by senior ministry officials, district representatives, and a large gathering of residents. (Newswire)