COLOMBO : Children’s Day is not merely an occasion for celebrations, gifts and entertainment. It is a reminder of our responsibility to protect every child and ensure that every young life is given the opportunity to grow with dignity, security and hope.
Children are the foundation of tomorrow’s society. Yet millions of children continue to face poverty, hunger, abuse, exploitation, child labour and barriers to education. These challenges cannot be ignored or remembered only on Children’s Day.
Every child deserves a safe home, nutritious food, quality education, proper healthcare and a childhood free from violence and fear. Schools must provide more than academic knowledge. They should nurture discipline, compassion, confidence, respect and a sense of responsibility.
The digital age has also created new challenges. While technology has opened valuable doors to education and communication, children are increasingly exposed to cyberbullying, harmful content and online exploitation. Parents, teachers and society must work together to guide children towards safe and responsible use of technology.
Children must also be heard. Their views, dreams and concerns deserve respect. A caring society should create opportunities for children to express themselves and participate in decisions that affect their lives.
Sri Lanka has a special responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind because of poverty, disability, gender, ethnicity or social circumstances. Protecting children requires strong laws, effective institutions and, above all, responsible adults who are prepared to act.
On this Children’s Day, let us remember that children are not simply the leaders of tomorrow. They are citizens of today, with rights that must be protected today.
The true test of a society is not how grandly it celebrates Children’s Day, but how faithfully it protects its children throughout the year.
Let us give our children more than celebrations. Let us give them safety, education, love, opportunity and a future worthy of their dreams.
