The Sri Lanka Scout Association Colombo District Branch’s 53rd Camporee was held at the Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo from 9th to 14th August titled‘Today’s Scout Tomorrow’s Legend.’
Deputy Mayor of Colombo M.T.M. Iqbal was chief guest at the opening ceremony and presented President’s badges to the students.
Over 60 troops participated with over 3000 scouts and girl guides from different parts of the country including Trincomalee, Kurunegala, Chilaw and four girl guides from France. The troops were divided into 5 sub camps -Neil Armstrong, Barack Obama, Bill Gates, David Attenborough and Queen Elizabeth ( girl guides ).
Key features of this year’s Camporee was to educate youth on implications of using dangerous drugs, dangers of social diseases, rights of a child, social integration, protecting the environment, training in vocations such as electrical, culinary, Information Technology, amateur radio and television broadcasting.
Several activities revolving around the theme and pioneering activities designed by the Sri Lanka Army were carried out including visits to the irrigation exhibition, natural history museum, planetarium, wetland park, Sri Lanka Parliament to stimulate both mind and body. There were cycle races, football and volley ball tournaments, campfires and a musical talent show, building brotherhood and friendship among campers.
Deputy Chief Commissioner Janaprith Fernando, Sampath Bank Managing Director Nanda Fernando, Colombo District Executive Committee Chairman Sukumar Rockwood, Organizing Commissioner Amil Abeysundra and Officials of the Scout Association were also present.
Text and Pix : Ruzaik Farook