Child protection units to be set up in NMDs

Child Protection Units (CPUs) will be established in all districts of the province, especially in the newly merged districts.

This was revealed during the 30th meeting of the Child Protection and Welfare Commission chaired by Special Assistant to the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Chief Minister on Zakat, Usher and Social Welfare, Salma Begum on Friday.

The meeting was informed that in 12 districts of the province, CPUs have been established under Child Protection and Welfare Act 2010.

Also in attendance were Chief Protection Officer KPCPW Ejaz Muhammad Khan and members and officers from law, finance, primary and secondary education, local government and home departments.

During the meeting, a wide range of important matters were deliberated upon, aiming to bolster the activities of the Commission. It was unanimously agreed that prompt appointments would be made to fill various crucial positions, including child protection officers, social case workers, psychologists, office assistants, and other vacancies. This decision was reached with the aim of enhancing the Commission’s operational efficiency and strengthening its ability to effectively address child protection concerns.

Moreover, significant attention was given to the comprehensive review of the CPWC’s annual budget for the fiscal year 2023-24. In-depth discussions were held, analyzing the budgetary allocations and ensuring optimal utilization of resources in alignment with the Commission’s goals and objectives.

Another noteworthy proposal put forth during the meeting was the establishment of a committee to explore different health insurance schemes for the Commission’s employees. The aim was to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage and ensure the well-being of the staff members who work towards safeguarding the rights and welfare of children.

Furthermore, the meeting focused on amendments to the service regulations and the provision of MPhil and high qualification allowances for the Commission’s employees. These deliberations aimed to recognize and incentivize the professional growth and expertise of the staff, promoting their continued commitment to the cause of child protection.

Salma Begum emphasized the importance of actively seeking additional suggestions to further enhance the Commission’s performance. She underlined the unwavering commitment to ensuring the protection of children at all costs, highlighting the pivotal role it plays in nurturing and upholding a civilized society.

Safeguarding the rights of children and shielding them from exploitation emerged as an indispensable responsibility that must be undertaken by all stakeholders.

Separately while addressing the closing ceremony of a two-day training workshop on Child Protection Information Management System( CP-IMS), Salma Begum said that everyone must perform their role for child rights protection and eradicating social issues and challenges faced by children.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 3^rd, 2023.