Srinagar, Nov 20 (KNS) : UNICEF Implementing Partners (IPs) in Kashmir — South Asia Centre for Peace & Peoples’ Empowerment (SACPPE),Human Welfare Voluntary Organisation (HWVO), Humanity Welfare Organisation Helpline (HWOHL), Humanity – The Ultimate Faith (HUF), and —Kashmir Women for Inclusive Development & Equality (KWIDE) jointly celebrated World Children’s Day 2025 at Sri Pratap (S.P.) College Srinagar, under the theme “My Day, My Rights.”
The programme featured a vibrant child-led format, enabling children to express their rights, perspectives, and leadership.
Chief Guest Bashir Ahmad Sheikh, Principal, S.P. College, expressed deep appreciation, noting that the confidence and clarity displayed by children brilliantly reflected what they can achieve when given space and trust.
Highlighting the commitment of the Social Welfare Department/Mission Vatsalya, Farooq Ahmad, Program Manager, Mission Vatsalya, stated that upwards of 4,000 children are benefitting through the preventive sponsorship programme across the Union Territory. He added that CWCs and DCPUs are fully established in all districts and are actively working to safeguard the welfare and protection of children.
Snobar (DSW/DCPO Kulgam) appreciated the joint initiative and the spirit of collaboration exhibited through the programme.
Among the Speakers Dr. Khairun Nisa, Dr.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelAsima Qureshi, Arshad Ahmad, and Waseem Ahmad (Chairperson CWC — Srinagar, Bandipora, Pulwama & Baramulla) emphasized strengthening community-level structures, raising awareness, and encouraging the use of Child Helpline 1098 for timely reporting of concerns.
The event was also graced by CWC Chairpersons of Shopian and Ganderbal, along with the CWC Member from Kupwara, whose presence added strength to the collective commitment towards child protection.
CWC Member Nazia Nabi shared a compelling impact story of a child rescued from abuse due to proactive community vigilance and now rehabilitating safely under Mission vatsalaya.
A special acknowledgement was given to the children with special needs from Zaiba Appa Institutte of Inclusive Educaion, whose inspiring performances highlighted the value of inclusion and equal opportunities. And children of CFS/ARC of KWIDE enthralled the audience with different message based skits.
Veteran Social Worker A.R. Hanjura expressed joy at seeing children lead the programme, celebrating their agency and leadership.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Umar Bhat President South Asia Center for Peace And Peoples Empowerment (SACPPE), who appreciated Mission Vatsalya, UNICEF, academia, CSOs, and the children for their collective commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and child-centred Jammu & Kashmir.(KNS)