The 2025 “Kreeda Shakthi” scholarship program officially began today (May 28), with over 300 young athletes awarded scholarships in the first phase under the supervision of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The initiative, led by Sports Minister Sunil Kumara Gamage and Deputy Minister Suganth Thilakarathna, aims to support 900 promising athletes aged 18 to 20, selected from 21 sports disciplines who have excelled at national junior-level competitions.
Speaking at the event, Minister Gamage emphasized that Sri Lanka needs athletes with passion and good character, not those driven by money alone. He pledged the government’s commitment to providing necessary facilities for skilled athletes to grow.
Deputy Minister Thilakarathna warned young athletes against using banned substances and shortcuts, highlighting that such victories are short-lived. He urged athletes to pursue success through dedicated training and effort.
He also pointed out the need to balance education and sports, noting that many students abandon athletics due to academic pressures. He expressed hope that this scholarship would motivate students to continue their sports careers while pursuing education.
The “Kreeda Shakthi” initiative is managed by the Department of Sports Development and is part of the government’s broader effort to nurture future sporting talent in the country.
