War damage to Vavuniya school estimated at Rs.110 lakhs

[TamilNet, Sunday, 09 February 2003, 04:15 GMT]
During operation 'Jayasikuru,' a military offensive launched by the Sri Lanka army (SLA) in 13 May 1997 to capture a9 highway and surrounding areas in Vanni, caused damages estimated at Rs 110 lakhs (Rs 11 million) to property and buildings of Nedunkerni Maha Vidyalayam in Vavunia district, principal of the school, Mr. Murugupillai Kugathasan, said.

"Although the SLA's Jeyasikrui battles to capture our land adversely affected the education of more than 1240 students, resettlement in the surrounding regions are now proceeding at a healthy rate and 475 students have been attending our school regularly now," the principal said.

"The 20 teachers in the school are working hard to raise the educational standards of the children. Children are feeling more optimistic about peace and believe that a bright future lies ahead of them," the principal added.

"The school, however, has lost two residential quarters for teachers during the war which has severely restricted our ability to attract additional teachers. Lack of space and shortage of school supplies and furniture, are limiting the ability of students and teachers to achieve greater progress," the principal said.