Scout founder’s day celebrated in Matale

The Sri Lanka Scout Association celebrated the 166th birth anniversary of its founder Lord Robert Stevenson Smyth Baden Powell at the birth place of Scouting in Sri Lanka, Christ Church College, Matale. Scouting was introduced to Sri Lanka by F G Stevens in Matale and on the instructions and guidance of the Chief Commissioner and the National Headquarters team, the national celebration was held in Matale at the Children’s Park, Christ Church College, Scout Outdoor Park and the Auditorium of the District Secretariat. Founder’s Day is celebrated throughout the 172 member nations of the World Organisation of the Scout Movement.

The main celebration had over 2,000 Cubs, Scouts and Leaders taking part. The Scouts marched in a procession to Christ Church College where the commemoration ceremony was held under the patronage of Chief Commissioner Janaprith Fernando Attorney-at-Law. Mr Fernando spoke of the importance of Scouting and the training the movement offers.

The main event was held at the District Secretariat Auditorium in Matale where 260 Senior Scouts, the first batch of Scouts to win the Prime Minister’s Award, were presented with badges, 60 Rover Scouts received the BP Award, and 10 Scout Leaders received the Woodbadge.

Guest of honour Mrs Thejani Thilakaratne, District Secretary emphasised the need to preserve the rich history of the Scout movement.

Present on the occasion were President of the Scout Council Srinath Guneratna, Deputy Chief Commissioner M F S Muheed, Nishantha Karunatilaka Additional District Secretary, Assistant Chief Commissioners, C K Abeywardana District Commissioner Matale, other District Commissioners, Headquarters Commissioners of SLSA and other Government officials and Scout officials.