On the Occasion of Universal Children’s Day
A Call to Action for Early Childhood Development and a Celebration of Children in Seychelles and Around the World
Today, on Universal Children’s Day, we unite to celebrate the boundless joy, immense potential, and remarkable resilience of children across the globe. This day is more than just a celebration; it is a profound affirmation of the unique contributions every child makes to their communities and the world at large. Let us take this moment to honor their voices, dreams, and inspiring spirits.
Central to our mission is a steadfast commitment to upholding the rights of every child, as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC). Every child deserves the fundamental right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, with access to quality education and essential healthcare. These rights are not aspirational—they are non-negotiable.
Early childhood development (ECD) stands at the heart of this commitment. It is the foundation of lifelong learning and holistic well-being. The formative years of a child’s life are critical, shaping the trajectory of their future. By investing in ECD, we are investing in a brighter, more equitable tomorrow for humanity.
Yet, we cannot ignore the significant challenges children face today. Poverty, conflict, climate change, and health crises continue to threaten their ability to thrive. Addressing these barriers requires urgent and collective action to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has a fair and equal opportunity to achieve their potential.
Equitable access to quality early childhood education must become a priority for every nation. Children, irrespective of socioeconomic status, geographic location, or ability, deserve inclusive educational opportunities tailored to their unique needs. This is not only vital for their personal development but also critical for fostering progress within societies.
As we champion the empowerment of children through education, we call for global collaboration to invest in robust early childhood education programs and initiatives. Such investments are pivotal to unlocking the vast potential of children and fostering their growth and development.
We must also acknowledge the invaluable role of families and communities in nurturing children’s well-being. Parents, caregivers, and community members are essential partners in creating environments that prioritize the health, happiness, and holistic development of our children.
Let us rally governments, organizations, and individuals worldwide to amplify children’s voices. Together, we can create policies and practices that address their needs and nurture their aspirations. Expanding access to resources that support ECD is not just an option—it is our shared responsibility.
Investing in early childhood development is intricately linked to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities). By prioritizing ECD, we not only safeguard children’s rights but also lay the foundation for a more equitable and just world.
As we look to the future, let us envision a world where every child is free to dream, learn, and grow in an environment that celebrates their rights and cherishes their potential.
Together, we can transform this vision into reality.
Thank you for your dedication to the cause of children everywhere. By working together, we can make a lasting difference.
With hope and commitment,
Mrs. Shirley Choppy
CEO, Institute of Early Childhood Development/UNESCO Category 2 Institute
