PM Shehbaz reiterates commitment to children’s rights, well-being

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on World Children’s Day, reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the rights, well-being, and development of our children, who were the architects of their future and the most valuable asset of the nation.

He also urged parents, educators, civil society, and policymakers to work together to create a society where every child felt loved, valued, and safe. 

“On this World Children’s Day, let us renew our pledge to put children first in our national priorities, ensuring a future where they can thrive with dignity, equality, and hope,” prime minister said, in a message on World Children’s Day, being observed on November 20.

The prime minister said the day served as a reminder of their collective responsibility to protect and fulfil the rights of every child, without discrimination and ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, had access to quality education, healthcare, and a safe, nurturing environment. “It is our duty to provide them with facilities and opportunities they need to achieve their full potential and contribute positively to the society,” he stressed.

The prime minister said that the government of Pakistan had implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children like Daanish Schools which were being established to provide quality education to underprivileged children in remote and underserved areas. These schools had transformed the lives of countless children, offering them a pathway to a brighter future, he added.

He said that they had declared education emergency by mobilizing resources to improve literacy rates, rebuild schools, and ensure quality education to the children.

“Special efforts are being made to enrol millions of out-of-school children through targeted campaigns, community outreach, and incentives for families to send their children to school. To address malnutrition and improve learning outcomes, the government has introduced nutrition programs in public schools, ensuring children receive healthy meals that support their physical and cognitive development,” PM Office in a press release, quoted the prime minister as saying.

These initiatives, the prime minister said, reflected their commitment to address the challenges that hinder the growth and happiness of their young generation.

NA speaker for safeguarding children’s rights

National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq stressed the need for collective responsibility in safeguarding child rights, highlighting that education, quality healthcare, and proper parenting are essential for children’s growth and development.
He shared these views on the occasion of World Children’s Day, observed globally on November 20 each year under the United Nations.

He said that the Constitution of Pakistan ensures the provision of fundamental rights, including protection, education, and healthcare to children.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted that the National Assembly has established the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR), aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of children across the country.

The Speaker stated that promotion of child welfare, provision of quality education and proper parenting are essential for national prosperity.

He stated that World Children’s Day serves as a reminder to create a safe and supportive environment for children to pursue their aspirations.

Furthermore, he said that the Parliament of Pakistan is committed to promote adequate measures to protect the rights of children.

He underscored the effectiveness of the strong legal framework established by the Constitution of Pakistan which guarantees child welfare.

Ayaz Sadiq highlighted the constitutional provisions that provide the protection of children, ensure the right to education, and prohibit child labor without any discrimination.

He also stressed that the National Assembly is committed to ensuring that every child has access to education & healthcare, adequate nutrition, and justice.

The Speaker emphasized the importance of a conducive environment for children so that every child can utilize their full potential and lead a dignified life. He urged all stakeholders, including educational institutes, civil society and especially parents to pro-actively contribute towards the promotion of child rights.