Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has called for concerted efforts by families, communities and the state to ensure a safe childhood, quality scientific education, universal healthcare, adequate nutrition and opportunities for sports and cultural activities for every child.
“Every child represents the dreams and possibilities of tomorrow. Nurturing them with proper care, affection and education is a sacred responsibility of all,” he said in a message on the eve of Children’s Rights Day and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh Shishu Academy.
The two occasions will be observed through various programmes from October 6 to 8, according to a PID release.
The Prime Minister stressed the importance of creating an enabling environment where every child can develop their talents, creativity and potential, describing it as a moral, social and national responsibility.
Recalling the history of Bangladesh Shishu Academy, Tarique Rahman said Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, the declarer of Bangladesh’s independence, established the academy in 1976. The institution is marking its 50th anniversary this year.
Established under state patronage to promote children’s welfare and development, the academy introduced the National Children’s Award competition in 1978, he said.
The Prime Minister also recalled various initiatives undertaken by former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to ensure children’s safety and protect their rights and interests.
He highlighted Bangladesh’s participation in the International Labour Organization’s International Programme on the Elimination of Child Labour (IPEC) in 1994, as well as Khaleda Zia’s role in strengthening institutional protection for children.
Despite progress, Tarique Rahman said challenges such as child labour, social violence, child marriage and discrimination continue to affect children and require collective action from families, communities and the state.
“Today’s children will take Bangladesh to new heights in the global arena of science, technology, sports, arts and literature,” the Prime Minister said.
He expressed hope that the golden jubilee of Bangladesh Shishu Academy would inspire the nation to embrace new dreams and begin a renewed humanitarian journey for the welfare and development of children.
The Prime Minister wished success to all children, parents, teachers and individuals and organisations involved in child welfare on the occasion of Children’s Rights Day and the golden jubilee of Bangladesh Shishu Academy.
