‘National Children’s Day Week’ from 25 September to 1 October

Monday, 28 September 2026 04:52 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Cabinet approves week-long observance to precede Children’s Day, aimed at raising awareness of children’s rights amid growing digital-era risks

The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the implementation of special programs declaring a ‘National Children’s Day Week 2026,’ to be observed from 25 September to 1 October, in the lead-up to Sri Lanka’s national Children’s Day commemoration on 1 October.

The country marks Children’s Day annually with the objective of strengthening social attention toward protecting children’s rights, education, health, and wellbeing.

Addressing the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa last week said it has been observed that the challenges facing children today have broadened well beyond traditional child protection concerns, now encompassing risks, psychological and social stress, negligence, and various social and economic vulnerabilities linked to internet use and digital technology.

Recognising this shift, he said authorities identified a need to build awareness not only around children’s rights, but also around the responsibilities of all parties consistently associated with children, including parents, teachers, public officials, service providers, and the general public.

“In response, it was proposed to establish a dedicated National Children’s Day Week alongside the national Children’s Day commemoration, aimed at raising public awareness of children’s rights, fostering greater social sensitivity towards children, and encouraging wider community involvement in child protection efforts,” he added.

The proposal to this effect was submitted by Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj.