Cabinet Minister of Cultural Affairs and Human Resource Development
During his time in government, as the Cabinet Minister of Cultural Affairs, Dr. Kodituwakku was responsible for the overall management of all the Cultural Centres in Sri Lanka, museums, archaeological sites including several World Heritage Sites, development of the film industry, other arts, national theatrical activities and archives.
Dr. Kodituwakku initiated the museum at Sigiriya. This ancient site also became a main point of controversy during Dr. Kodituwakku’s ministerial term because of the “Sound and Light” project, which was initiated by his predecessors. Although the UNP government’s name was dragged through the mud with accusations of a “sell-out” of a national heritage site, it was Dr Kodituwakku who revoked the implementation of this “sound and light” project.
During Dr. Kodituwakku’s tenure, he signed the agreement for Chinese assistance for a National Performing Arts Centre, which is at present under construction at Alexander Place, Colombo 07. However, this proposal existed for almost a decade without being implemented.
Dr. Kodituwakku also inaugurated the National Dancing Festival as an annual event with thousands of young talented dancers taking part. However, his successors have scrapped this event.
Dr Kodituwakku’s biggest contribution to the Film industry was the acquisition of the “Sarasavi Studio” in Kelaniya. THe property of this studio was owned by a family, but the premises were occupied by the Film Corporation without having bought nor paid rent for it, virtually by force. Dr Kodituwakku negotiated with the owners for the government to buy the premises, at the government valuer’s price, for the Sarasavi Studio.
At this time, Dr. Kodituwakku also served as the Minister of Human Resource Development. These three ministries together employed almost one-third of the Sri Lankan Public Service. The leadership of such a large number of personnel was no easy task, but Dr. Kodituwakku performed it in an exemplary and humane manner.
