The Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Saroja Savithri Paulraj, stated that the government has launched numerous initiatives to strengthen Early Childhood Development (ECD) and care.
She noted that these initiatives are being implemented under the vision, “Secure World for Children – Creative Future Generation,” as outlined in the government’s policy statement.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing the closing session, titled “Looking Forward and Next Steps,” at the Global Caregiver Forum 2026 held in Madrid, Spain.
In her address, she highlighted several key measures, including the “Step-Up” communication program to promote child health among young children, the introduction of a common curriculum for all preschools nationwide by 2027, formal training for 19,000 teachers, and the implementation of the National Multi-Sectoral Strategic Action Plan for Early Childhood Care and Development (2025–2029). She also mentioned a five-year program at provincial and district levels to support children with neurological disorders, including autism.
Minister Paulraj emphasized the government’s goal of transforming caregivers in Sri Lanka from mere “assistants” into certified professionals.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring a secure and prosperous future for every child and caregiver by integrating global best practices into national policies.
Referring to recent events, the Minister commended the humanitarian response of the Sri Lankan people to those affected by Cyclone ‘Ditwah’.
She added that caregiving should not be seen as an individual burden but as a shared responsibility of both the State and society.
