The Secretariat for Coordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP) has stepped in to enable athletes from Jaffna to participate at the National Schools Games in Colombo. This follows a request from Major General G.A. Chandrasiri, the Commander, Security Forces, Jaffna, to find the necessary funds for transport.  

Earlier, the Government Agent, Jaffna, has in conjunction with Education Department officials arranged for a contingent of 578 (student athletes, coaches and staff) to participate at the Games. Since the first contingent was due to travel in early September and hence there was an urgent need for commitment, SCOPP decided to utilise its own funds for this important initiative, and covered the costs of ferrying 215 members of the team from Jaffna to Trincomalee and back, with the shipping company kindly granting a concessionary rate of Rs 4,400 per student.  The security forces provided transportation by road and afforded them with all hospitality.  

SCOPP notes that given hardships it is very difficult for students in the Jaffna Peninsula to take part in events like this.  SCOPP also felt that opportunities such as this where young people from different parts of the island and belonging to different communities can interact in a positive and healthy manner should be encouraged.  The Army’s initiative therefore seemed a good use of funding in the absence of peace talks following the LTTE withdrawal.

Whilst hoping that the LTTE will return to negotiations, SCOPP believes that these kinds of interactions would also contribute to building peace.  

SCOPP appreciates the initiatives of the security forces to assist these students and hopes it will be possible for the remaining 300 plus students to be brought to Colombo for the next phase of the programme.  SCOPP therefore appeals to local and international organizations in Sri Lanka for sponsorship to make this possible.  

Further details can be obtained from Director/Operations, SCOPP (011-2681143 and 011-2681196). Sponsorship should be sent direct to the sea transport agency.