Message from First Lady Linda Ramkalawan |01 June 2021
Mrs Ramkalawan
‘Let us be joyful and thankful for our children’
“On this 1st June, I would like to wish every child in Seychelles a Happy Children’s Day.
“It is unfortunate that similar to last year the traditional celebrations will not be held. In fact, instead of enjoying yourselves with your friends and teachers, we are being told to keep at a distance from them as a precaution against the Covid-19 virus.
“However, many other celebrations that will help us grow to be better persons can still be observed. We can still have good thoughts in our hearts for everyone around us; we can be thankful for our parents who support us, for our teachers who try their very best to share the knowledge we will need in our lives, for religious leaders who help show us the way to lead good lives and in general for the adults, in whatever position who are working, to create a better country for us all. These thoughts, if well celebrated, will help us become the mature and responsible adults our country needs in its development.
“I have been personally concerned with the number of cases of child abuse lately. Too many adults are seizing the opportunity to exploit our children sexually. What worries me is the total lack of consideration for the child’s innocence. When two-year-olds become victims of adults, I can only describe it as sickness of mind. When young boys are prompted and filmed by adults to engage in sexual activities, again I am appalled. Too many children are being ill-treated for the pleasure or satisfaction of adults. I make a special appeal on this day dedicated to our children for adults to play their rightful role in helping our children grow without any psychological scars. Be guardians and not molesters of our children.
“Childbearing is a gift from God. Bringing a child into the world, taking care of him/her is indeed a pleasure we all experience. Seeing a child suffer brings the opposite feeling. I see too much pain when I visit the homes. The stories, wishes or aspirations of children are heart breaking. I would like to make a call on all our youths to ensure that before they make the decision to be parents to think seriously. Ensure that you are ready to meet the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of the innocent life you bring into the community. Be your child’s hero as you remember that your children is a lifelong responsibility.
“And so, let us be joyful and thankful for our children. May they remain the joy of our hearts and may they grow up to be good citizens, ensuring the love and care for future generations.
“Have a Happy Children’s Day.”