"The Sindh Human Rights Commission, in collaboration with SPARC organized an event to commemorate World Day Against Child Labour 2024 under the theme 'Let’s act on our commitments: End Child Labour!'
At the event, Iqbal Ahmed Detho, Chairperson of the Sindh Human Rights Commission, delivered a powerful welcome address, emphasizing its critical objectives. He acknowledged that despite numerous laws, policies, and government initiatives against child labour in Sindh, social and cultural impacts persist. Detho passionately advocated for making human rights education mandatory from 7th grade onward, ensuring children are aware of their constitutional rights. He also highlighted the improper allocation of the education budget, stressing the need for better resource distribution to support children’s education and eliminate child labour.
Gul Mastoi, Board Member of SPARC, shed light on the current situation of child labour in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need to address this issue due to its impact on children's lives and the nation's future.
During the event, the audience was moved by a powerful tableau performance by girl students from Begum Hajra Public School, highlighting girl child rights, education, safety, and equality.
Shumaila Muzammil from SPARC delivered an inspiring speech, detailing SPARC’s efforts to combat child labour, advocating for stronger enforcement of laws and comprehensive support systems for vulnerable children.
Kashif, Manager at SPARC, played a crucial role as the event's moderator, ensuring a meaningful discussion. He also showcased a documentary on child labour, highlighting the harsh realities faced by child labourers and the importance of collective action to end this injustice.
Rana Asif Habib, President of the Initiator Human Development Foundation, delivered a thought-provoking speech, emphasizing child labour as a barrier to education and advocating for children’s rights.
Fozia Hameed, MPA-Sindh, captivated the audience with her inspiring message, stressing the importance of education and aspiration for every child. She appreciated recommendations from the Sindh Human Rights Commission on combating child labour and identified root causes such as inflation, poverty, lack of family planning, and unemployment. Hameed urged equipping children with technical skills and education to pursue their dreams and overcome exploitation."
