• Proposal given to Spkr. & P’ment Secy. Gen. on ‘practical & engaging’ HR education

In a significant move towards addressing pressing educational reforms and human rights-related concerns, the Parliamentary Caucus on Human Rights (HR) has intensified efforts to raise awareness about human rights and fundamental rights (FR) among schoolchildren.    

Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (19), Chairperson of the said Caucus Wasantha Yapabandara, highlighting the importance of this initiative, stated: “Educating our young generation about their human rights and FR is crucial for fostering a society that values and respects the principles of justice, equality, and democracy. By instilling these values in schoolchildren, we lay a good foundation for a more informed citizen.” 

He noted that the Caucus has taken proactive steps by submitting a comprehensive proposal to the Speaker of the Parliament and the Secretary General of Parliament. He said that this proposal outlines a detailed plan for integrating human rights education into the school curriculum, with the aim of creating an environment where children can learn about their rights in a practical and engaging manner. 

“Our objective is to ensure that every child understands their inherent rights and the importance of respecting the rights of others. Awareness at a young age is pivotal, as it shapes their perspectives and behaviours as they grow into adults,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) has initiated a programme to include human rights in the school curriculum of Sri Lanka as a subject to raise awareness among the community about the people’s rights. Speaking at a press conference held earlier this year, one of the HRCSL Commissioners Prof. Thaiyamuthu Thaanaraj said that the HRCSL is currently working with the National Education Institute (NIE) to make the necessary changes, adding that the HRCSL has received a positive response from the Education Ministry and the NIE regarding the proposed education reforms.