The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to declare a “National Children’s Day Week” alongside the annual National Children’s Day celebrations.

Accordingly, the Cabinet approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Women and Child Affairs to declare the period from September 25, 2026, to October 1, 2026, as “National Children’s Day Week – 2026” and to conduct special programmes during this period.

Children’s Day is celebrated annually in Sri Lanka on October 1, with the aim of strengthening social attention to children’s rights, protection, education, health, and overall well-being.

It has been observed that the challenges faced by children today extend beyond traditional child protection concerns and include risks associated with the internet and digital technology, psychological and social pressures, neglect, and various socio-economic vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, the need has been identified to enhance awareness of children’s rights and protection among all stakeholders who regularly interact with children, including parents, teachers, public officials, service providers, and the general public, rather than focusing solely on children themselves.

Accordingly, National Children’s Day Week has been planned alongside the national celebrations to raise public awareness of children’s rights, foster greater social sensitivity towards children, and strengthen community participation in child protection.