15% of Lankans suffering from malnutrition -President Sirisena

(FASTNEWS|COLOMBO) – President Maithripala Sirisena says all administrations should invest in the well-being of the country’s children.

The ‘Kiren Sapiri Dayak’, national programme to provide milk packets to all children was inaugurated under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena today.

The programme launched under the Grama Shakthi People’s Movement together with the Ministries of Education, Health and Livestock Department and other public and private stakeholders, aims to provide a packet of milk to around 600,000 selected primary school students.

Speaking during the event, the President said nearly 15% of the country’s population is suffering from malnutrition and therefore administrators should re-evaluate the funding for health and education sector.

The Head of State noted that the programme is a massive investment for the future generation, in an effort to build a healthy society.

President Maithripala Sirisena urged all state sector employees involved in the programme to work efficiently to make the program a success.

The President stated that such programmes will have shortcomings, adding that it is dependent on several matters and not an easy task.

President Sirisena also said those involved in the project need to be mindful of any mishaps.