The New Nation - Internet Edition

Sheikh Arif Bulbon

Bangladesh Shishu Academy organised a day-long programme titled 'Early Childhood Day' at the Shishu Academy premises in the city yesterday in celebration of the World Children Day and Children Rights Week '08.

Bangladesh Shishu Academy organised the event in association with the UNICEF.

A large number of children gathered at the venue making the day-long event colourful.

Shauly Sumon, Director of Bangladesh Shishu Academy, inaugurated the event, as chief guest.

M Nuruzzaman, Project Director of Early Learning Children Development (ELCD), Sayed Milky of the UNICEF, among others, were present at the function.

About 400 children from 16 schools under the ELCD Project took part in the city day-long programme. These schools are being run jointly by Dhaka City Corporation and the UNICEF.

The programmes of this function were highlighted by Children's rally, competition, various games and rides, puppet show, Meena show, film exhibition and cultural function.

Director of Shishu Academy said, "Observance of the day will help to encourage the children to explore their knowledge and talents. Shishu Academy always comes forward for the development of children."

A film made by expert puppet filmmaker Bipul Hasan was screened in the programme.

Bangladesh Shishu Academy started its journey in 1976 with the aim of devel oping dormant talents of children in education, culture and other creative fields.

After establishment of the academy, Shishu Academy has been playing an important role for realising their objectives. Activities of the Shishu Academy include arrangement of various events like the national children's award competition, seasonal competitions among the children, children's fair, annual cake festival, children's art competition and study tours. It has branch offices in all the 64 districts of the country and at six selected upazilas in six divisions.