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THERE are too many children who are vulnerable and at risk, many times due to situations where adults have failed;hence the need for increased child protection throughout the country, since the number of confirmed cases of abuse thus far for this year is quite unacceptable, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Jennifer Webster said. This week, the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security, along with other stakeholders, is observing Child Protection Week 2012, under the theme, “Adults, Take Action Against Child Abuse: The Time is Now!”.
Child Protection Week, an annual event, is observed in over 120 countries worldwide and aims at increasing awareness of issues of child abuse. Child Protection Week was first observed in Guyana in 2004 to propel local groups and individuals into action to ensure that children are kept safe.
In recognition of children’s innocence, vulnerability and dependence on adults, Minister Webster noted that adults are responsible for ensuring children reach their full potential in life. She added that an adult’s role begins in the home as a parent and guardian, but extends to the wider society, including the community, schools and religious gatherings.
“I believe that there can be no greater gift in life than that of inspiring a child’s future; this is the basis for the value placed on the teaching profession where our teachers have the responsibility and the privilege of guiding and inspiring the children in their care to achieve their full potential,” Minister Webster emphasised.
She illustrated that there is no voice and face to the human tragedy of abuse and neglect which robs victims of their self-esteem and dignity, and affects their mental and physical health.
In addressing children’s issues and rights, attention needs to be placed on the primary care- givers. In this regard, the Child Protection Agency (CPA) is demanding that adults take action now to stop abuse, since children by nature are vulnerable and dependent on adults for their survival.
Importantly, much work is being done to ensure that children are made aware of their rights, responsibilities and the actions they should take in the face of abuse. This, it can be rightly said, is “placing the responsibility for the protection of our children on tiny shoulders,” stressed Minister Webster.
“This cannot be allowed to continue; therefore, it is time that adults take responsibility for keeping our children safe,” the minister posited.
Minister Webster highlighted that it must be recognised that children have a right to grow up in an environment that is free from abuse, neglect and exploitation, since this can result in the child’s destruction.
Additionally, community members must learn to recognise when a child is at risk, and be able to ascertain what support and assistance should be offered.
Guyana has made significant strides in meeting the needs of children through several pieces of legislation passed in the National Assembly to protect the rights of children. Guyana is also a signatory to the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child.
Activities for Child Protection Week 2012 continued yesterday with an Adult against Child Abuse rally at the National Stadium. Some of the other activities for the week include a walk, community rallies, mural painting and a sensitisation workshop on child abuse and protection issues with officers of the Guyana Police Force. (GINA)
Child Protection Week, an annual event, is observed in over 120 countries worldwide and aims at increasing awareness of issues of child abuse. Child Protection Week was first observed in Guyana in 2004 to propel local groups and individuals into action to ensure that children are kept safe.
In recognition of children’s innocence, vulnerability and dependence on adults, Minister Webster noted that adults are responsible for ensuring children reach their full potential in life. She added that an adult’s role begins in the home as a parent and guardian, but extends to the wider society, including the community, schools and religious gatherings.
“I believe that there can be no greater gift in life than that of inspiring a child’s future; this is the basis for the value placed on the teaching profession where our teachers have the responsibility and the privilege of guiding and inspiring the children in their care to achieve their full potential,” Minister Webster emphasised.
She illustrated that there is no voice and face to the human tragedy of abuse and neglect which robs victims of their self-esteem and dignity, and affects their mental and physical health.
In addressing children’s issues and rights, attention needs to be placed on the primary care- givers. In this regard, the Child Protection Agency (CPA) is demanding that adults take action now to stop abuse, since children by nature are vulnerable and dependent on adults for their survival.
Importantly, much work is being done to ensure that children are made aware of their rights, responsibilities and the actions they should take in the face of abuse. This, it can be rightly said, is “placing the responsibility for the protection of our children on tiny shoulders,” stressed Minister Webster.
“This cannot be allowed to continue; therefore, it is time that adults take responsibility for keeping our children safe,” the minister posited.
Minister Webster highlighted that it must be recognised that children have a right to grow up in an environment that is free from abuse, neglect and exploitation, since this can result in the child’s destruction.
Additionally, community members must learn to recognise when a child is at risk, and be able to ascertain what support and assistance should be offered.
Guyana has made significant strides in meeting the needs of children through several pieces of legislation passed in the National Assembly to protect the rights of children. Guyana is also a signatory to the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Child.
Activities for Child Protection Week 2012 continued yesterday with an Adult against Child Abuse rally at the National Stadium. Some of the other activities for the week include a walk, community rallies, mural painting and a sensitisation workshop on child abuse and protection issues with officers of the Guyana Police Force. (GINA)
