Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has reiterated the Government’s commitment to ensuring that every child in the Maldives grows up in a safe and loving family environment.

In her Children’s Day message, the Minister highlighted the importance of strong relationships and quality time with children, noting that such bonds are vital for their social, emotional, and mental development.

She stressed that family settings are the most effective environment for nurturing values and life skills, adding that institutional care should only be a last resort.

As part of her message, the Minister also detailed several key initiatives led by the current Administration to reform the childcare system. These include efforts to reconnect children in State care with their families of origin, strengthen the fostering framework, and introduce a temporary fostering programme. So far, these measures have enabled 72 children in State custody to be placed in family environments

Additionally, the Minister praised the public’s support and urged continued collaboration to ensure that all children grow up in a safe, caring environment.