Organizing Of "Happy Day" In Lieu Of World Children's Day

It was in fact, a sight to see.  Little ones holding hands, in a line hurriedly getting onto the bus, some were so little that they were struggling with the lowest platform. Everyone was very happy. Kind ladies beside them politely guided them onto the bus at the Galle Face Green. When the driver turned his head and asked, "Are we to move?”, everyone had already settled in.

That is how the Seva Vanitha of the Regiment of Artillery celebrated World Children’s Day.  Nominations were called from all Regiments to register hundred children for the event, weeks before. There was an overflow of applicants for the event; unfortunately some had to be left out as only 100 vacancies were available. From the “Galle Face Green” the bus drew to Majestic City to watch a 3D animated movie “BRAVE”. When they were provided with popcorn, coca cola and water at the theatre all the children were so happy that they quickly settled in their seats. It was a complete new experience for them. Then the little ones were taken to McDonalds at Kotehena for their lunch. The smiles across their faces reminded everyone of the delights of life and how fortunate they are.

The ceremony at Panagoda had been scrupulously organized by members of Artillery Seva Vanitha. Laptops, desktops and stationery were among the items given away to the children. Rs. 10,000.00 each were also offered to carefully selected 30 children as scholarships. 

Colonel Commandant of the Regiment of Artillery Major General J C Rambukpotha and President of the Artillery Seva Vanitha Mrs. Champika Rambukpotha graced the occasion as chief guests. The executive committee and many other members were present throughout this event.

2 laptops were given to University Students whilst 6 desktop computers were given to O’ Level & A’ Level students. These computers were sponsored by Singer Sri Lanka (Pvt) Ltd. 30 Children who excelled in Grade V – 2012 Scholarship Examination were given scholarships amounting to Rs. 10,000.00. All children were gifted with a stationery pack comprising of exercise books, a school bag, a box of instrument, colour pencils, Colour Pens etc. 

The parents and siblings who accompanied children were provided with refreshments and lunch at Regimental Centre at Panagoda.

All in all, the day was one of those rare days which celebrated the art of giving and the importance of caring for the less privileged. Ladies of Seva Vanitha with farewell to those romping children. The smiles on their faces while carrying those gifts and waving at the ladies who took care of them reminded us of how far deeds as such go and how it can change the entire life of a person.