Sajith calls for stronger child rights and nutrition programmes

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says that even amid the severe economic and social challenges faced by the country today, parents must not neglect their responsibility to prioritise the needs of their children.

He stated that children’s proper nutrition, health, education, and social protection should be ensured by including child rights in the country’s fundamental rights framework.

He made these remarks while attending an event held at the Kuliyapitiya Urban Council Hall.

During the event, school bags were distributed to 550 preschool children from 11 preschools in Kuliyapitiya town.

The Opposition Leader recalled that a national policy on child nutrition, including school uniforms and midday meals for schoolchildren, was initiated by R. Premadasa.

He emphasised that, in the current situation, at least a proper nutrition program should be implemented for all preschool children.

He also pointed out that Sri Lanka is currently operating an unstructured early childhood development program, with curricula varying from province to province.

He stressed that, according to the internationally recognised K to 12 (Kindergarten to Grade 12) concepts, which is also acknowledged by the United Nations, the education system from early childhood to Grade 12 should be structured and strengthened.

He said he understands well the importance of child protection, and added that everyone should be committed to providing love, care, and maximum protection for children for the future of the nation.