“One should like or share information published on social media only after carefully verifying its authenticity and background. Blindly believing everything circulated on social media can have many harmful effects on society,” said the Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
Under the theme “Responsible Digital Society for Social Unity,” a special appreciation event recognizing the participation of youth and children in the Northern Province was organized by SOND with the support of UNICEF and was successfully held this morning – on Thursday 28 May 2026, at the Chavakachcheri Urban Council Hall.
The Hon. Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan, made these remarks while participating in the event as the Chief Guest and addressing the gathering.
The Governor further addressed the gathering:
In this era, where social media has become a major platform with a significant influence on society, it is highly commendable that such an awareness programme is being conducted. A few days ago, false information was deliberately circulated on social media in the southern part of the country claiming that the Governor had banned Vesak celebrations in the Northern Province. Such misinformation was spread rapidly with the malicious intention of creating hostility between communities.
I have officially lodged a complaint with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) regarding this matter. Today, people even spread things that we neither said nor did, for various ulterior motives.
If you speak out against anti-social activities, you may be targeted and defamed on social media. False information can be spread about you, and attempts may be made to damage your reputation. On the other hand, those who support anti-social activities are often praised and glorified. Unfortunately, individuals involved in such activities are now perceived by some as the most powerful. They are using various means and influential networks to manipulate social media in their favour
Therefore, not only the younger generation, but everyone should exercise extreme caution regarding the content published on social media. Before sharing any information, it is essential to examine its authenticity and understand the purpose for which it is being circulated. We must think carefully, many times over, before following, liking, or sharing a social media post, and ensure that the information is genuine, he emphasized.
At this event, the project officers and training providers were presented with certificates of appreciation by the Hon. Governor in recognition of their outstanding service and contribution.
The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including the Secretary to the Provincial Ministry of Education of the Northern Province, M. Patrick Diranjan; Executive Director of SOND, S. Senthurasa; UNICEF Child Protection Officer, Sharmili Sathees; Senior Lecturer of the University College, Jaffna, Dr. K. Shanmuganathan; Chancellor of the University of Vavuniya, Professor S. Mohanadas; and Senior Lecturer of the University of Jaffna, M. Gajavinthan, along with students and youth participants.
