Let’s act on our commitments: END CHILD LABOUR! -12th June
Posted 1 year ago
Islamabad
June 12, 2024
The International Labor Organization's theme for the 2024 World Day against Child Labour is "Let's act on our commitments: End Child Labour."
In 1999, the world took a decisive step towards safeguarding children's rights by adopting the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention (No. 182). Now, as we mark its 25th anniversary, the theme for the 2024 World Day is a clarion call: "Let's act on our commitments: End Child Labour!"
To commemorate the day, 12th June not only celebrates a quarter-century of progress but also starkly reminds us of the work that still lies ahead. As we commemorate this milestone, it's imperative to reinvigorate our efforts towards the complete eradication of child labor. Central to this mission are two foundational conventions: Convention No. 182 and Convention No. 138, which addresses the Minimum Age for Admission to Employment or Work (1973).
In the pursuit of this noble cause, innovative strategies are vital. One such visionary proposal comes from Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Islamabad. He advocates for a paradigm shift in addressing child labor, suggesting that nations grappling with high child labor rates should explore labor exchange for skills training. Under this model, philanthropic organizations can play a pivotal role. By equipping children with valuable skills, they not only escape the cycle of exploitation but also become assets to society as trained professionals capable of securing dignified, high-earning employment.
Dr. Hijazi Syed, a Governance Specialist at the World Bank Project, echoes this sentiment. With a doctorate in Development Economics from Clark University, Dr. Syed emphasizes the potential of youth to acquire IT skills. By incentivizing their engagement in high-tech training programs, a new generation of IT experts can emerge in Pakistan, ready to thrive in the evolving job landscape. These initiatives empower young minds and align them with lucrative opportunities in burgeoning sectors, inspiring a brighter future for our children.
Mr. Mohyuddin A Wani, the Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, is taking concrete steps towards this vision. With steadfast determination, Mr. Wani has spearheaded initiatives to prioritize high-tech skill development. Notably, nearly 500 youths have embarked on transformative skill-building journeys across 16 federal colleges in Islamabad. They will be learning artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science skills. Mr. Wani envisions extending this program beyond the capital, aiming to implement similar programs nationwide. By harnessing the potential of children adept in IT skills, these initiatives promise to be transformative, paving the way for a future where every child can fulfill their potential free from the shackles of exploitation.
