BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IN a statement to officially mark the commencement of Child Month celebrations, Minister of Education the Hon. Shawn K. Richards has made a clarion call for more focus to be placed on the nation’s “greatest resource”, its children.
The month of June is designated Child Month and has been celebrated by the Federation since 1985.
Minister Richards informed that for this year’s observance, “Serving Children with Love and Dignity” has been the theme selected.
As one of the precursors to their transition into empathetic and responsive adults, Richards said the Federation’s children must be raised in environments of love and dignity.
In exploring ways in which adult can serve the children, Minister Richards suggested that individuals recognise and appreciate their contribution to society and their abilities.
“Human dignity means that an individual or group feels self-respect and has a sense of self-worth. It is the right of all members of the human race to be treated with dignity and respect. It suggests that all children, regardless of their situation, deserve concern, respect and dignity. Our responsibility as adults is to recognise and respect the unique qualities, abilities, dignity and contribution of all our children.
“The Team Unity Government recognises that children are our future.We pledge to introduce a regime of respect and inclusion. As Minister of Education, I recognise that it is my duty to begin with the children…”
The Education Minister intimated that service to children is one of the keys to restoring the institution of family which he said is under threat.
“I especially encourage all parents and caregivers to also commit to serving children with love and dignity. The institution of the family continues to be under attack. Therefore, this is the message that I want you to bear in mind this month and onwards as we serve our children with love and dignity. There is much work to be accomplished but, as we stand together united for the purpose of family, we can transform our society.
“As a society, we can do this by providing assistance to parents when necessary and ensuring that children have adequate care when parents or guardians charged with that responsibility do not provide it.”
The Education Minister stressed that the principles of advocacy, inclusion and the adapting of environments which are conducive to all children regardless of physical or other challenges must also be adopted.
“Respecting the rights and protection for all children implies adapting the environment where all children learn to live, grow and learn. This involves providing a more inclusive environment for children who are challenged, ensuring equity for all children means that as a society, we must not marginalise, ignore or devalue children. Dignity is enhanced when society recognises the full place of all children. Most importantly, we must serve as advocates for children in the community or society who do not have a voice.”
Several activities have been organised in celebration of Child Month, including concerts, church services, media activities, a Family Food Fair to be held on June 19 at the Independence Square and the Grand Parade which is scheduled for June 26.
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