‘Govt and NGOs must ensure child rights’ protection’

Joint efforts of government departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and civil society organisations were required to create awareness and ensure implementation of Child Rights Laws. This was stated by speakers in an interactive workshop organised by the Children Complaint Office (CCO), Ombudsman Punjab, in a local hotel on Thursday.
Focal person Ehsan Ghani said the workshop was held to discuss implementation strategy for Child Rights Laws and establishment of an effective child grievances redressal system as the welfare of children was the responsibility of all the departments concerned. Bunyad Foundation Senior Manager Nasira Chaudhary requested all departments and NGOs to cooperate with the CCO in achieving its goals.
Benazir Income Support Programme Lahore Division Director Muhammad Khalid Mehmood suggested that a chapter on child rights laws be incorporated into the school syllabus to make children aware of their rights. PIDA Deputy Director Nosheen Fazal said the CCO must expand access to venerable and illiterate children of far flung areas. She said the Farmer Council of Irrigation Department could play a vital role in helping the office communicate its message to the targeted children.
Representatives of Social Welfare Department, Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, Probation, Population, City District Government, NRSP, Global Vision Organisation, Sahil and Pehchaan attended the workshop.