President highlights child welfare and education reforms on World Children’s Day

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has stressed the present government’s responsibility to ensure the physical and mental well-being, protection and development of children, saying every child should have equal opportunities to pursue their aspirations.

Issuing a message to mark World Children’s Day, President Dissanayake said children’s imagination, aspirations and creativity would shape the future of Sri Lanka and called for an environment where children’s voices are heard and their potential supported.

The President said the government was taking steps to expand access to education, social protection, healthcare, nutrition, sports, leisure and recreation, while protecting children from violence and discrimination.

According to President Dissanayake, race, religion, economic status and geographical location should not prevent children from receiving an education or achieving their potential.

He also highlighted the ongoing reform of Sri Lanka’s education system, describing the planned transformation as a move towards a skills-based system suited to changing global conditions. The government’s objective, he said, was to reduce the burden on parents while creating a learning environment that does not cause unnecessary distress to children.

President Dissanayake said measures were also being taken to support children in child development centres and those requiring care, while expanding educational scholarships and other programmes intended to strengthen children’s protection and social security.

Addressing the country’s economic situation, the President said the government was working to establish a stable economy capable of providing children with a safe and secure childhood.

He also referred to the national programme “A Nation United”, saying it was aimed at bringing communities together to address the threat posed by illicit drugs to the younger generation.

The President commended the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs for organising this year’s World Children’s Day celebrations under the theme “Strong Minds – Enriched Children” and for declaring a National Children’s Day Week featuring programmes focused on children’s rights, protection, education and well-being.

President Dissanayake concluded his message by extending his wishes to all children in Sri Lanka on World Children’s Day.