Women's protection laws termed key to children's wellbeing

KARACHI:

Experts from various governmental and nongovernmental organisations have urged that the society is judged on its ability to better fulfil the needs of the vulnerable children and women.

Experts, talking at a Policy Seminar organised by an NGO Research and Development Foundation (RDF) in collaboration with Kindernothilfe (KDN), held at a hotel in Karachi, emphasised to implement women's protection laws in letter and spirit to safeguard children.

RDF Executive Director Ashfaque Soomro, of while talking with the participants, said that child labour is rampant in our society, which is a major hurdle in realization of the rights of children.

Primary responsibility to control child labour rests on the shoulder of mothers, being the primary caregivers, he added.

He added that all actors need to work together to ensure the bright future for the children.

Talking at the seminar, German Consul General Dr Ruidger Lotz underscored the pivotal role of women in socio-economic development, emphasising the need for increased women leadership across all sectors in Germany.

Dr Lotz acknowledges the existing disparity in gender equality and advocates for greater representation of women in leadership roles.

He highlighted the significance of establishing a legal framework to support gender equality, emphasising that true progress can only be achieved when the community actively commits to improvement. He stressed the importance of societal evolution, emphasising that community-level efforts are essential in fostering positive change.

Expressing confidence in the transformative power of women within communities, Dr Lotz expresses his eagerness to hear more success stories of women's empowerment. He applauds the contributions of Germany towards this cause and emphasises the importance of international collaboration, stating that collective support is crucial for progress.

Sindh Education Foundation Managing Director Qazi Abdul Kabeer shared that they have introduced alternative learning paths and digital learning centres to enhance education accessibility.

Operating in conflict-prone tribal areas such as Shikarpur and Jacobabad, SEF plays a vital role in providing education and support to communities facing various challenges.

Women Development Department Secretary said that training of women on children's protection is very necessary at the grass rout level.

KNH Country Coordinator Kiran Shahzadi highlighted the pivotal role of women in driving change within their communities and families. By safeguarding children, it is evident that women are already empowered, underscoring their role as change agents within society.

This seminar attracted participation of the relevant policymakers, experts and practitioners who discussed challenges, shared best practices, and explored solutions to promote gender equality and safeguard the rights of children, particularly in poor sections of the society.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 25^th, 2024.