CIC-Platignum jointly educate pre-school teachers with Southern Province Health Services
Saturday, 20 July 2013 00:17
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The Platignum brand from CIC recently announced the launch of ‘Singithi Suwa Udanaya’, a program designed to educate and inform pre-school teachers on the best ways to develop and nurture their students. Conducted in association with the office of the Southern Province Health Services under the concept of ‘Singirini Suwa Udanaya’, this initiative identifies the importance of external influences on the development of a child especially during time spent in pre-school, and strives to better prepare teachers and caregivers to provide the best possible care for the future of the country.
Commenting on the program, CIC Holdings Chief Executive Officer / Managing Director Samantha Ranatunga said: “CIC Holdings is committed to nurturing the lives of Sri Lankans in all aspects, of which the healthy development of children is undoubtedly a major aspect. Pre-school is the first time children have extended exposure to external forces, which is why the Platignum brand from CIC felt it was important to ensure that these teachers have a better understanding of how to foster a healthy learning environment.”
Singithi Suwa Udanaya will be conducting seminars and workshops which will educate pre-school teachers on the concept of early childhood development and provide a better understanding of a child’s psyche. The program will also emphasise the importance of a stimulating learning environment by encouraging enhancements to classrooms such as colourful walls and the presence of the children’s own art. To further encourage the complete involvement of the teachers in the program, Platignum from CIC plans to reward participants for their respective work and efforts.
Commenting at the launch of the initiative, CIC Holdings Divisional Director Healthcare and Consumer Division W.S. Premakumar, said: “Educating teachers on the importance of the external interactions in the long-term development of pre-school children is one of the main objectives of the Singithi Suwa Udanaya program. The workshops and seminars will then develop their teaching skills and abilities accordingly, equipping them with the necessary tools to provide a better service. The program will also extend its awareness campaign to parents and guardians so that they understand and are supportive of the efforts of the teachers. The collaboration of parents and teachers will ideally ensure that the children are surrounded by positive influences both at school as well as at home.”
“The first phase of the Singithi Suwa Udanaya program will target teachers in pre-schools throughout the city of Galle, while the second phase will be conducted among pre-schools in Matara and Hambantota,” said CIC Holdings Head of Consumer Business Kavindra Silva.
Also commenting at the launch of the programme, Southern Province Director of Health Services Dr. Hemachandra Edirimanne said: “I believe there is not enough emphasis given to the mental health of pre-school children, especially in the context of their long-term development, and I am grateful to CIC Holdings and Platignum for coming forward to not merely sponsor, but to be an active part of this great programme. While I am sure that Singithi Suwa Udanaya will undoubtedly achieve its objectives, it is my hope that initiatives of this nature will be conducted throughout the country.”