News
NPC: Mangala upheld right to dissent and to be different
The untimely demise of Mangala Samaraweera is a grievous cause for sorrow to those who knew him and a great loss to those who shared his belief in a country in which there are equal rights to all, the National Peace Council said.
The following is the full text of the NOC statement: “The late Minister passionately believed in a Sri Lanka that was united and belonged to all in equal measure irrespective of ethnicity, religion, caste or gender.
We at the National Peace Council remember Minister Mangala Samaraweera for championing a political solution to the ethnic conflict like we do. He believed in obtaining the people’s support for the peace process and sought to share his vision with them and on a large scale through the Sudu Nelum (white Lotus) movement that he led.
In these trying times we especially remember the late Minister for upholding the right to be different and to dissent. Ultimately, it is the ability to tolerate and accept dissent, and safeguard the space for it, which marks a democratic society and leadership. It is through difference and dissent that all aspects of the truth may emerge to provide for a better solution to be found.
During his political career, Mangala changed political parties but stood true to the same set of values and principles in each one of them. He worked with all major leaders across the Sri Lankan political spectrum throughout his 30 year political career making his own contributions to the many positive and significant changes that took place under his watch. He also maintained lasting relationships with a wide range of decision makers in the international community who recognised his values and what he stood for.
News
Financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces – PM
Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya stated that the necessary financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces. She emphasized that these funds must be utilized effectively for school development and requested that relevant authorities submit proposals to address existing shortcomings in school infrastructure.
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a cordial meeting with Muslim women in the Wellawaya area on 1st of March.
Subsequently, the Prime Minister met with the Chief Sanghanayake of the Uva Wellassa region and the Chief Incumbent of Yudaganawa Rajamaha Viharaya, Venerable Rajakeeya Panditha Most Venerable Galtemwatte Nandarathana Nayaka Thero, and briefed him on the current progress of the new education reforms.
She further stated that, while ensuring due recognition for vocational education, steps are being taken to develop 50 vocational training centers equipped with modern courses, covering all 25 districts of the country. She also noted that new education reforms will be introduced for Grade 6 starting in 2027, and that the printing of new textbooks will be entrusted to the Educational Publications Department of the Ministry of Education.
The occasion was attended by Uva Province Governor Attorney-at-Law Kapila Jayasekara, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security R.M. Jayawardhana, Member of Parliament Ruwan Wijewardene, local government representatives, the Buttala Divisional Secretary and the District Secretary.
[Prime Minister’s Media Division]
The Department of Immigration and Emmigration has decided effective from 28th February 2026, to grant a free fourteen (14) day visa extension to all tourists who are unable to leave Sri Lanka due to flight cancellations. 
The Maldives Coast Guard Ship Huravee arrived at the Port of Colombo for replenishment purposes on 02 Mar 26. The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) in compliance with time-honoured naval traditions.
The ship is a 48.9m long Offshore Patrol Vessel which is commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Nafiu Mohamed.
Meanwhile, the ship’s crew is scheduled to visit several tourist attractions in the city of Colombo, during their stay in the island.
Financial allocations for the development of infrastructure in provincial schools have been provided to all provinces – PM
Free 14 day visa extension for visitors unable to depart Sri Lanka
US embassy in Dubai hit; Israel pounds Tehran, Beirut
Perera, Sugandika, Ranaweera take Sri Lanka to T20I series win over West Indies
Maldives Coast Guard Ship Huravee arrives in Colombo
New charges for son of Norway’s crown princess on trial for rape
‘Dates have the highest sugar content to fight Coronavirus’
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