Accord inked for boosting child protection mechanisms

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) and the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB), Government of Punjab, have signed a Letter of Understanding (LoU) to collaborate on child protection initiatives across the province of Punjab.

The LoU was signed by Acting Country Director of IRC, Waqas Dar, and Chairperson of the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, Sarah Ahmad, in attendance were the representatives of IRC and CPWB, a news release said.

This collaboration signifies the shared vision of both organisations to develop synergies to strengthen child protection systems in Punjab and extend quality services to vulnerable segments of society, with a particular focus on children in the labour force, out-of-school children, and House Holds led by children.

IRC pilot initiative of strengthening case management and case referral system in the districts of Rajanpur and DG Khan have evolved in close collaboration of CPWB with the financial support of UNICEF.

IRC and CPWB aim to work collaboratively to address the pressing needs of children and create a safer and more inclusive environment for children in Punjab.

Chairperson of CPWB, Government of Punjab, Sarah Ahmad speaking on this occasion opined, “Children are the future of our nation, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to quality services. This collaboration will pave the way for addressing multifaceted challenges faced by vulnerable children and their families, ultimately leading to a brighter and more secure future for them.”

Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Country Director IRC, stated, “IRC is delighted to join hands with CPWB, Government of Punjab, in our shared commitment to protect children facing vulnerabilities.”

Published in The Express Tribune, June 16^th, 2023.