President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his message to mark World Children’s Day and Elders’ Day 2025, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, welfare, and dignity of both children and elders.
“Children represent the future of our nation, while elders embody the wisdom and sacrifice that have built our society. It is our duty to ensure the wellbeing of both generations,” the President said in his statement.
He stressed that the Government has taken practical measures to protect children’s rights, including initiatives to improve healthcare, education, and social protection. Special focus has been placed in this year’s Budget on providing support services for children with developmental challenges, such as autism.
Highlighting the theme of this year’s World Children’s Day commemoration – “Protect with Love – Empower to Conquer the World” – President Dissanayake said the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs will continue to play a vital role in advancing these objectives.
The President further noted that no child of school-going age should be deprived of education due to ethnicity, economic background, or any other factor. He emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensuring children’s physical and mental wellbeing, equal opportunities, and protection from abuse, discrimination, and violence.
Extending his gratitude to the elderly, the President paid tribute to their contribution to the nation’s progress and called for a society where both children and elders live with “security and dignity.”
“On this special day, we reaffirm our pledge to provide love, support, and protection to our children, whose smiles are the hope and strength of our nation. At the same time, we extend our deepest respect and gratitude to our elders,” the President said
