Message from National Council for Children (NCC) chief executive Yasmin Umarji on the occasion of Children’s Day |01 June 2021

‘We feel blessed to have you in our lives’

“Happy Children’s Day to our precious children, our future leaders.

“We acknowledge the difficulties many of you have faced this past year due to the covid-19 pandemic and the local transmission of the virus. You had to stay indoors and not go out to play and you had to adapt to new ways of learning and living.

“We know you have acquired new skills and discovered many hidden talents you did not know you had. We urge you to continue to aim high, have dreams and aspirations and live in hope.

“You bring laughter and warmth in our homes. You bring adventure into our lives and you make us revisit our childhood every now and then. On your special day, NCC sends lots of love and a big hug to you and your family.

“Your rights as children are guaranteed and you need to take the responsibility to safeguard and protect yourselves. National Children’s Day reminds us of the need to continue to work together to protect you from unsafe situations, whether it is in your own home, school or the community. On this day, we all stand together in our commitment towards keeping you safe and healthy.

“You must learn to listen, obey and take advice on what will bring you success. Respect your parents, your family, your teachers, your elders and your friends. Stay away from destructive behaviours and say no to drugs, alcohol and other harmful substance and situations.

“We feel blessed to have you in our lives. Your smiles make us forget all the unnecessary things we worry about. Thank you for bringing happiness and excitement into our lives.

“Together, we will help you to develop wings to fly and soar beyond your wildest dreams.

“Have an amazing and blessed Children’s Day.”