Ministry of Child Development an Women's Affairs along with the UNICEF has launched the ECCD Week from December 14 - 21 with the 'importance of investing in early childhood' as the main theme.
In a special message to mark the event President Mahinda Rajapaksa has said that his government is committed to give special attention to early childhood development through establishing a separate ministry for this work.
He has commended the Children's Secretariat of the Ministry of Child Development and Women's Affairs for declaring a National Week to create awareness among the young and old on Early Childhood Care and Development.
The UNICEF says the period of early childhood years starting from conception till the age of eight is when the crucial physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development of a child takes place and essential support is required during this period to ensure that a child survives and thrives.
UNICEF Representative, Reza Hossaini has noted that the earliest years of a child's life has a great impact on his or her immediate well-being and future.
"Improving early childhood practices is of fundamental importance as we strive to ensure children become healthy, happy, and productive members of society," he has said. [...]
