– on occasion of International Children’s Day 2012
INTERNATIONAL Children’s Day is observed in many parts of the world on June 1 each year, and presents an opportunity for profound reflection on the institution of childhood. In this formative period of their lives, our children deserve to be treated with dignity and to be nurtured in a protective and loving environment. It is the responsibility of parents and society as a whole to ensure that children are nurtured in an environment that is full of compassion and concern, and one that reinforces sound moral and social values.
International Children’s Day is therefore a time for all of us to reaffirm our commitment to building a society that fosters the holistic and harmonious development of our children, inclusive of adequate time for recreation and fun.
Playtime is vital to the development of children. It is important that our children enjoy time in the company of other children, and time spent outdoors having fun.
On this International Children’s Day 2012, I join in extending greetings to Guyana’s children. May childhood be a time for personal growth and development, and most of all, a time to have fun and to be happy!