Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj emphasized that building a child-centred society begins with understanding children's world and that adults must first change their attitudes and responses before expecting changes in children's behaviour.
She made these remarks at the inauguration of the 2026 National Early Childhood Care and Development Programme, held at the Sri Bodhi Grounds in Gampaha on July 15 The programme is being conducted alongside the National Early Childhood Care and Development Week, observed from July 14 to 20.
The Minister said it is the responsibility of adults to identify children's talents and guide them towards a brighter future. She noted that children raised in a caring and supportive family environment develop stronger personalities and stressed the importance of creating a society that understands children's needs and perspectives.
Pointing out that issues such as violence against children, neglect, abuse, and school dropout are often rooted in the behaviour of adults, the Minister said meaningful change in children's behaviour can only be achieved when adults adopt positive attitudes and responses. She also underscored the importance of resolving conflicts through dialogue and setting positive examples for children through love and constructive discipline.
Gampaha District Secretary Lalinda Gamage said several child welfare initiatives are being implemented across the district. He added that public awareness campaigns are also being carried out through social media under the theme, "Let Us Avoid Conflicts in Front of Children."
Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs Tharangani Wickramasinghe, Director General of the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development Nilushika Dhanasekara, Member of Parliament Hemali Weerasekara, Gampaha Mayor Eric Ediriwickrama, government officials, parents, preschool children, and many others attended the event.
