Minister of Women and Child Affairs, Saroja Savithri Paulraj, announced that the government has undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen Early Childhood Development (ECD) and caregiving services nationwide.

She said the reforms are being implemented in line with the policy vision, “Secure World for Children – Creative Future Generation.”

Paulraj made these remarks while addressing the closing session, titled “Looking Forward and Next Steps,” at the Global Caregiver Forum 2026 held in Madrid, Spain.

Outlining key measures, the Minister said the Government will introduce the “Step-Up” communication initiative to promote child health; establish a unified national preschool curriculum by 2027; provide formal training for 19,000 teachers; implement the National Multi-Sectoral Strategic Action Plan for Early Childhood Care and Development (2025–2029); and launch a five-year provincial- and district-level programme to support children with neurological disorders, including autism.
She further noted that the Government aims to professionalise caregiving in Sri Lanka by transitioning the role of caregivers from that of “assistants” to certified professionals.

Paulraj added that ensuring a secure future for every child and caregiver requires incorporating global best practices into domestic policy, and stressed that caregiving must be understood as a shared responsibility between the State and society.

Referring to recent events, she also commended the public’s humanitarian response toward those affected by Cyclone Ditwah.