News Today: A nationwide school dengue eradication programme Sri Lanka launches July 9 to protect students and fight outbreaks.

A nationwide school dengue eradication programme Sri Lanka will be held on July 9, involving all schools in a unified effort to combat the rising spread of dengue and chikungunya. This campaign, titled Clean Sri Lanka Day, is organized by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat.

The initiative aims to mobilize all 10,096 schools across the country in a day-long effort that includes cleaning school premises, identifying and eliminating mosquito breeding sites, and educating students about disease prevention.

A preparatory discussion was recently held at the Education Ministry, chaired by Deputy Minister Madura Seneviratne, to finalize logistics and ensure maximum participation.

The programme will also focus on shaping positive environmental, social, and attitudinal changes in students. Engaging events like art and poster exhibitions, educational lectures, dramas, musical performances, and cultural showcases will be part of the initiative.

Various national institutions will support the campaign, including the Ministry of Health, the Tri-Forces, Civil Security Department, Sri Lanka Police, Governor’s Offices, and both District and Divisional Secretariats.

Plans are underway to expand the programme’s reach to Teacher Training Colleges and Vocational Training Institutes, strengthening public health awareness through education.

This large-scale eradication drive not only targets mosquito-borne diseases but also promotes environmental responsibility among the younger generation—a vital step towards building a healthier, cleaner Sri Lanka.