THE Ministry of Labour, Human Services and Social Security in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the European Union (EU) yesterday held a rally at Vreed-en-Hoop, Region Three, to observe “World Day Against Child Labour.”
In addition, a public education programme, ‘Tackling Child Labour Through Education’ (TACKLE), was held in an effort to increase school attendance and reduce child labour.
This is one of several activities aimed at promoting awareness and action to tackle child labour; through sensitising the general public about the importance of scaling up global, national and local level efforts by taking action against all forms of child labour.
According to a report from the Government Information Agency (GINA), it is an integral part of poverty reduction, social protection and education planning strategies.
The programme featured poems, skits and songs that illustrated how to deal with issues of child labour.
Students from Vreed-en-Hoop primary and secondary school and West Demerara Secondary were among those that participated.
Region Three Chairman, Julius Faerber stated that it is necessary to have a sound education to reduce the rate of child labour and parents of children who are under the age of 16 years and work instead of attending school will be penalised, since officers will be visiting schools and undertaking investigations.
Coordinator, Human Services Ministry, Sharon Patterson said parents should make every effort for their children to stay in school, at least until the age of 15 years.
Government has provided literacy and numeracy programmes, as a measure to ensure that children become literate.
In addition, programmes are provided for slow-learners, which will ensure them an opportunity to learn at their own pace.
Regional Education Officer, Marlyn O’Donoghue stated that children should be able to grow and develop mentally in order to make contributions to their community as well as the country.
Government has made it possible for every Guyanese child to acquire education by providing them with textbooks and uniforms.
In addition, the recent school feeding programme that provides biscuits and juice to schools is benefiting children around the country.
O’Donoghue noted that citizens must help to ensure that child labour is discontinued and all perpetrators must be reported to the police or labour officers.
President of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Gillian Burton noted that education is a very important asset to the future and children must take full advantage of all areas that are available. This will help to eliminate child labour.
Burton urged children to take part in various educational activities such as sports, religious and cultural events. This will ensure that they lead healthier lives.
She noted that the GTUC and other organisations will work tirelessly to end child labour in Guyana.
Various activities will be conducted within this week to commemorate “World Day Against Child Labour,” which will be observed on June 12, under the theme, “Go For The Goal: End Child Labour.”
PHOTO saved in Graphics file as Three Child
Nursery school pupils performing on stage during a programme held at the West Demerara Secondary school in observance of ‘World Day Against Child Labour’, yesterday.
