President Calls for Unified Action to Elevate National Sports

COLOMBO (News 1st); President Anura Kumara Disanayake has urged the Ministry of Sports and affiliated associations to adopt a collaborative and strategic approach to uplift Sri Lankan sports to the international level.

Speaking during a progress review meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat with officials from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the President emphasized that isolated efforts — such as distributing sports equipment — are insufficient. Instead, he called for structured, long-term programmes that can drive sustainable sports development.

The meeting also reviewed the institutional progress of the National Youth Services Council and the National Youth Corps, with updates on ongoing youth development initiatives across the country.

President Disanayake highlighted that, like in developed nations, sports can generate not only social benefits but also economic value. He urged the Ministry to adopt a more strategic and results-oriented approach to sports development.

Special attention was given to the “Youth Club” programme under the National Youth Services Council. The President directed officials to prioritize the establishment of modern vocational training centers aimed at school leavers, with a focus on enhancing youth employment opportunities.

He concluded by stressing the importance of inter-agency collaboration and efficient implementation, instructing all institutions under the Ministry to meet both physical and financial targets by the end of 2025, ensuring optimal use of allocated resources.