The Cabinet has approved the expansion of the “Introduction of ‘Mindfulness’ for School Students” Programme, initially sanctioned on December 12, 2022, aimed at alleviating stress among school students and fostering a sense of calmness. This programme has been successfully implemented across nearly all schools nationwide for over a year. As a further step, the Cabinet has endorsed the Education Minister’s proposal to designate the day after Vesak Full Moon Poya day as the National ‘Mindfulness Day’ annually. Additionally, the programme ‘A Mindful Country through the Vesak Week’ will be conducted each year during the Vesak Week, complemented by the organization of the International Mindfulness Conference starting from May 2024.
In other developments, the Urban Development Authority (UDA) has been entrusted with the task of developing the Eththukala Beach Park, the sole public beach park in the Negombo Metropolitan Municipality area spanning 6 acres 1 rood 9.1 perches. Situated within the High-Density Tourism Promotion Zone of the Negombo Development Plan 2021-2030, this park is envisioned as an attractive destination for both local and international tourists. The Negombo Municipal Council has decided to transfer the management of the beach park to the UDA to enhance its appeal.
The Cabinet has approved the proposal put forth by the Urban Development and Housing Minister to grant the land housing the park to the UDA as a free grant, in accordance with the provisions of the Government Land Ordinance.