Mohammad Sharif Uddin, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) of Chattogram, said that today’s children are the bright future of tomorrow. "They are much smarter than us. We must step forward to build a livable country for them," he said at the inaugural discussion of World Children’s Day and Child Rights Week 2025, held on Monday morning at the District Shishu Academy.
He stressed the importance of listening to children, urging adults to avoid dismissive phrases like “be quiet.” Instead, children should be guided with care, even when they express irrational ideas. “They must not be deprived of joy and recreation. Alongside education, they need moral guidance and the chance to grow up in a healthy environment,” he added.
This year’s theme, set by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the District Shishu Academy, was “Let’s listen to children today, work for them every day.”
The event began with a ceremonial release of balloons. Performances included music, drama, dance, and poetry.
Notable guests included Professor Dr Sourav Sakhawat, a renowned children’s writer, NGO representatives, and child participants. Discussions focused on building a child-friendly city and ensuring equal rights for all children through combined efforts from government and NGOs.
