CTU queries Bandula G.’s distribution of some 3,000 pianos to schools

The distribution of some 3,000 pianos during the tenure of former Education Minister Bandula Gunawardena is to be raised with the Bribery Commission by the Ceylon Teachers Union (CTU).

CTU General Secretary, Joseph Stalin said the Union would soon lodge a complaint with the Bribery Commission to investigate the distribution of 3,000 pianos to schools, which cost Rs 150,000 each .

He said 3,000 pianos were sent from Korea, but only 2,999 reached the Education Ministry as one was damaged while being shipped.

Mr Stalin alleged that Mr Gunawardena gave 35 pianos to Carlton Primary School.

He also claimed that 35 green boards worth Rs 30,000 were distributed among some schools while others were left out, and there were more green boards remaining.

He said they were request- ing the Education Ministry to enquire about the piano’s as well as the green boards and ascertain as to who else got the rest of the boards and pianos.

“We do not know why so many pianos were given to a private school. What we do know is that students’ resources along with funds have been used for private gain,” he said.

E d u c at i o n M i n i s t r y Secretary Upali Marasinghe said the ministry has no power to investigate on the former minister’s actions. He said if the Union is concerned, action could be taken only by lodging complaints with the Bribery Commission.

He explained that the Education Ministry had just finished working on the 100Day programme mandate, and its priority is to the future plans. He said that inquiries must be done, but most of it will be done if they are allowed more time.