SPARC organises ‘Children Parliament’
KARACHI – Speakers at the ‘Children Parliament’ on Thursday urged to provide basic facilities to the kids and asked the government and civil society to come forward and play their role for the betterment of the children as they are the future of the country.
The event was organised by the Society for Protection of Rights of the Child (SPARC) at a local hotel, while a good number of representatives from social society and other organisations participated in it.
Speaking on the occasion, chief guest, Justice Zafar Ahmed Shervani of Sindh High Court, appreciated the organisers for holding the event and said that all over the world there are several countries which have children parliaments but in Pakistan the SPARC is going to establish such a body for the first time in the country.
He added that every child could only be provided rights when vigorous demand is made. He was of the view that children can better utilise the forum for promotion and protection of their rights.
Senior journalist Fasihuddin Ghousi highlighted the importance of children in the society saying that to learn about the truth is a fundamental right of every child.
But, unfortunately, our young generation is unaware about their history because the curriculum of the country is comprised of distorted materials, he said. He supported the notion of right of education in mother tongue. Ghousi argued that a child could only better understand things when they are taught in his/her mother tongue.
Javed Jabbar, former Federal Minister, introducing children to the function and responsibilities of parliament, said the country could not progress without laws and proper implementation of regulations. He added that it seemed good idea that children through this forum could lobby in a better way for the their rights.
Abdul Maruf, the Deputy District Attorney Sindh, said that the nature has provided all rights of expression and movement to individuals so it is the responsibility of the state to provide these rights to all of its citizens through legislation.
Nazra Jahan, the promotion officer, SPARC Karachi, and others also spoke on the occasion.
Source: The Nation
Date:3/7/2008
” 
” 
” 
” 
