Language, economic development and social cohesion
In theory English continued as a compulsory
second language, with no requirement that Sinhalese students should
learn Tamil and Tamil students Sinhala. Doubtless decision makers
such as Jayewardene thought that the different communities could
communicate with each other in English. But, given the hostility to
English, given the absence as he knew well of competent English
speakers to become teachers, given the failure to make it compulsory
to pass in English at any public examination, English was naturally
neglected in many schools,
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Why respect cannot be demanded but earned...
We live in a society that demands a lot of
things. It seeks recognition when recognition is not due and respect
when respect is something to be earned and not demanded. Many forget
that respect for an individual, an institution or a group of people
is built over a period of time and is forged on mutual
understanding.
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Hector Kobbekaduwa’s 28th death anniversary fell
on September 18:
A politician with high qualities and principles
The gigantic and historical exercise of
implementing the Land Reform Law and taking over vast
areas/thousands of acres of cultivated lands owned by individuals
and public/private companies throughout the island within a
stipulated time was really an undeclared war. To win the war an
astute general was needed to command the troupe and give the correct
leadership. Kobbekaduwa as the minister himself came to the war
front, cleared the road and provided the required efficient
leadership without an iota of doubt,
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