Addressing the certificate awarding ceremony of the 2026-I batch of young cadets at the National Youth Corps Training Center in Walahena, the Minister said the new education policy would allow students to choose between academic and vocational education streams after the Grade 9 national examination.
He stressed that the country requires professionally skilled individuals in addition to university graduates and said the government’s objective is to create “smart citizens” capable of adapting to the future world.
The inaugural batch of cadets completed training in Information Technology, English language proficiency and life skills development aimed at enhancing their professional and social capacities. Certificates were presented to those who successfully completed the programme.
Commenting on the concept of “system change,” Prof. Abeyrathne said meaningful transformation must begin within citizens themselves.
“The system does not change simply because individuals fell into the Beira Lake. If citizens strengthen themselves internally and intervene responsibly, the country can be directed towards a better path under any administration,” he said.
The Minister also addressed concerns over drug abuse among schoolchildren aged 12 to 17, claiming that government control efforts had achieved a 90 percent success rate, while emphasizing the importance of youth rejecting drugs completely.
He further encouraged young people to engage in literature, music, arts and sports to build balanced personalities and improve their healthy life years.
The event was attended by Rev. Fr. Jude Nicholas, Ajith Gihan, Captain K.M.D. Katugampala, local political representatives, government officials and parents.
