President Maithripala Sirisena stressed the urgency of establishing an awareness program to educate parents on the manner in which they should react to examinations and results of their children so that children are not faced with undue parental pressure. 

The President said an awareness program on the attitude of some parents towards their children who are preparing for the exams and those who failed exams, should be implemented at school levels.

The President, who recalled several unpleasant incidents related to the students who failed in five year scholarship exam, said it is essential to educate parents about the mentality of children towards these competitive exams.

President Sirisena stated that it is of paramount importance to ensure that the children of Sri Lanka grow up without the pressure of competitiveness and extreme parental expectations. 

He further mentioned that parents must be empathetic towards the feelings and capacities of their children. 

The President expressed these sentiments while addressing the Royal College prize giving yesterday (16), where he stressed the need to protect the youth from narcotics and illicit substances. 
 
Speaking at the ceremony, he said drug menace and the disadvantages of information technology have become challenges in building a disciplined and civilized society. He added all parents should pay attention to them.