It was indeed a memorable occasion when the kids of Gateway College, Colombo 4 and the kids of Gateway Achievers joined hands to commemorate the 64th Anniversary of Sri Lanka’s Independence together.

‘Gateway Achievers’ - a school for special needs, is the most recent addition to the Gateway Group of Colleges and its principle Community Service Responsibility Project.

A special assembly started off proceedings. After the hoisting of the Lion Flag, children of both schools sang the National Anthem together.

Representatives of both schools dressed in the National costumes representing the different communities then recited prayers invoking the blessings of the Divine on their country.

The children entertained each other by singing songs in keeping with Independence Day.

Friendships were made almost instantly and it was heart-warming to see the children mix and interact with such ease. A spirit of bonding and a display of affection between them was evident.

Shrieks of delight were heard and one could see the children taking part in games and races, running helter skelter to flee from the catcher.

Refreshments followed and here again sharing and caring were the watch words.

The kids of Gateway College Colombo 4 were seen sharing cakes and chocolates which they had brought with them, while the traditional milk rice was served by Achievers.

At the end of it all, good-byes were said and the Gateway College, Colombo 4 kids returned to school.

Here was a lesson that could not be learned in the class room – a lesson where children reach out to those who are differently abled – without inhibition.