Safeguarding pre-school children from abuse

Hemas Outreach Foundation partners with Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians and the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development to launch a nationwide campaign to saveguard pre-school children from abuse.

In response to the escalating violence against children in recent years, this foundation partnered with Sri Lanka College of Paediatricians and the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development to launch this first-ever nationwide campaign aimed at empowering and educating preschool children to safeguard themselves against abuse.

At a ceremony held at Temple Trees to mark World Children’s Day, under the patronage of Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawarende, a poster, jingle and video was launched focused on providing an essential tool to protect and empower the youngest members of our society.

Around the world, awareness about ‘good touch’ and ‘bad touch’ has been cultivated among young children, and HOF is now bringing this crucial message to Sri Lanka. The program’s main goal is to educate children about what to do when confronted with abusive behaviour, safe and unsafe touches, going to a parent or another trusted adult if they are faced with an unsafe situation.

Speaking on the initiative, Shiromi Masakorala, Executive Director, Hemas Outreach Foundation and AYATI Trust Sri Lanka said, “We believe that empowering preschool children is crucial in preventing abuse. The jingle, accompanied by actions, will be incorporated into daily routines at all preschools to teach children how to respond in critical situations. Additionally, all 19,000 plus preschools across the country will display these posters, ensuring a visual presence. These communication materials have been thoughtfully developed in both Sinhala and Tamil to reach all communities.”