VICTORIA, Seychelles — The National Children’s Day celebrations kicked off yesterday during a special assembly at Anse Etoile primary school, organised by the National Council for Children. The event brought together government officials, educators, students, and development partners to honour Seychelles’ children. Attendees included Minister for Education and Human Resource Development David Pierre, Minister for Social Affairs, Family and Equality Pamela Charlette, Minister for Youth and Sports Kalsey Belle, and a representative from the Chinese embassy.
A highlight of the ceremony was the reading of the official National Children’s Day message by the ministers for Education and Social Affairs. The message echoed this year’s Unicef theme, ‘Together for Every Child’, alongside the National Council for Children’s national theme, ‘Let Children Remain Children’. The address emphasised society’s collective responsibility to protect, support, and encourage every child, ensuring they enjoy their childhood through learning, play, creativity, and personal growth.
Children were encouraged to embrace values such as respect, discipline, honesty, hard work, kindness, tolerance, and compassion while making the most of educational opportunities. The message also highlighted global challenges faced by children lacking access to education, security, and food, urging Seychellois children to appreciate the support available to them. NCC’s chief executive Yasmin Umarji echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of collaboration to keep children safe and well cared for.
During the assembly, the representative from the Chinese embassy presented a special gift to the children, symbolising continued friendship and cooperation between Seychelles and China. The event also marked the official launch of the Children’s Festival, a month-long programme of activities throughout June to celebrate, empower, and engage children nationwide. In addition, the Ministry of Education announced the upcoming Anti-Bullying Campaign, aimed at strengthening schools as safe and supportive environments.
The assembly featured vibrant performances of dance, singing, poetry, and a fashion show, showcasing the diverse talents of Seychellois children. It concluded with well wishes to all children in Seychelles, encouraging them to continue learning, growing, and contributing positively to their communities. The SPNM also issued a Children’s Day message pledging support for safe learning environments, strong family units, and community protection against social ills like drug abuse.
Seychelles joins nations worldwide in commemorating International Children’s Day on June 1.