GG News Bureau
UNITED NATIONS, 9th Aug. UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday has called to increase investments in children’s education and nutrition programmes to help them achieve their full potential.
According to UNICEF press release issued in New York Mr. Tendulkar was on a visit to Sri Lanka, where met with and advocated for children and their families affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2022 economic crisis, which left millions in need of assistance.
The release noted that as the country moves towards recovery, prices remain high for essential items and schooling, leaving families with the difficult choice of either putting food on the table or supporting their children’s learning.
Mr. Tendulkar said “The children I spoke with, are showing great tenacity, and their hope for a better future remains strong. We need to continue supporting them so they keep achieving their goals.”
“By investing in their education and nutrition, we are not only investing in their future but also every country’s future,” he added.
He visited schools and plantations, where the UN agency has been supporting children and their families.
UNICEF’s midday meal programme has been providing nutritious meals to some 50,000 preschool children in nearly 1,400 schools across the country since August 2022.
The meal programme has also helped boost pre-school attendance.
UNICEF provided cash transfers to more than 110,000 families with children up to two years of age to buy nutritious foods and other important baby supplies as part of the support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
Sachin Tendulkar, dubbed “the little master” by fans globally, also met with young Sri Lankans and shared his experiences growing up.
The “Cricket Catch-Ups” featured Mr. Tendulkar talking about overcoming obstacles, resilience and focusing on the pursuit of his goal.
“Cricket taught me a lot in life I was a naughty kid”, he said speaking to the press at the end of his trip.
He shared how cricket helped him focus on his goal to play for India. It helped him to start planning and, importantly, how to execute those plans; as well as teaching him life lessons on success, failure, celebrations and disappointments.
“I would encourage children in Sri Lanka to go out and play sports, it will benefit their health. Whatever they choose to be in life […] they will be a better person, if they are fitter persons.” Mr. Tendulkar added.
Mr. Tendulkar was appointed the first UNICEF Regional Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia in 2013. He has been playing a pivotal role in improving the lives of children in the region.
He promoted UNICEF’s Hand Washing Initiative; in India, he campaigned for sanitation and use of toilets; and in Bhutan and Nepal, supported the UN agency’s Bat for Brain Development programme and promoted women’s participation in cricket.
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