The Kolamba Lamai (Colombo Children) Art Competition- 2014 was commenced at the Vihara Maha Devi Park under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa this morning (20 September). This art competition was organized by the Urban Settlements Development Authority under the Ministry of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing and Common Amenities for the children who live in under privileged housing schemes in Colombo District.

It has been planned to coincide with the World Children’s Day and the World Habitat Day. About 5,000 school children took part in the competition which has been organized on the instructions of Minister Wimal Weerawansa to improve the capabilities of children living in under-served housing settlements in Colombo. As part of the Janasevana Swashakthi Human Development Programme of the Ministry of Construction and Housing, many such programmes have been launched to enhance artistic skills in the fields of drama, art, sculpture and music has been commenced with the participation of around 25,000 children. Already 100 Art and Sculpture Training Centres have been established and so far 20,000 children have attended these training programmes.

The Urban Settlements Development Authority has also made arrangements to hold a children’s art exhibition at the National Art Gallery from 1st to 4th October. 75 dramas were submitted for the first round of the children’s drama competition which was held recently at Greenpath New Town Hall and the final round will be held on 27th and 28th September.

A children’s cultural concert, launching of children’s songs CD and an awards ceremony for children who have shown their skills in acting, singing and dancing will be held with the support of the University of Aesthetic Studies at Nelum Pokuna Performing Arts Theatre on 4th October.

President Rajapaksa was presented with the souvenir of the Janasevana Swashakthi Human Development Programme. It has been planned to hold a street food production and trade stall in Colombo in connection with the World Habitat Day. Distribution of equipment for the people who would take part in the trade stall took place under the patronage of the President and Minister Weerawansa. Also Swashakthi Kantha Saviya Programme targeting 100 women self employees have been commenced.

Meanwhile Janasevana soft ball cricket tournament will be played on the 28th of this month.

Senior Minister A.H.M. Fowzi, Parliamentarian Thilanga Sumathipala, Secretary to the Ministry, Wimalasiri Perera and a group of people were present on the occasion.

source: http://www.houseconmin.gov.lk/index.php/newsandevetns/114-kolamba-lamai-colombo-children