Can Youth officials along with others during the World Day Against Child Labour awareness programme held at Fellowship Missionary Ministry, Burma Camp, Dimapur, on June 12.
Dimapur, June 13 (MExN): Can Youth, in collaboration with the Department of Social Work, Tetso College, and interns from Amity University, Noida, observed a Thanksgiving Programme and the World Day Against Child Labour at Fellowship Missionary Ministry, Burma Camp, Dimapur, on June 12.
The programme was led by Marina Rongmei Konyak, who welcomed the participants and underscored the importance of collective action in safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.
Addressing the gathering, Can Youth Founder and Chief Functionary Jenpu Rhakho Rongmei spoke about the growing challenges of child labour, stating that many children are compelled to work due to poverty, family circumstances and lack of educational opportunities, often ending up as domestic helpers or in other informal sectors.
Drawing from his own childhood experiences and struggles, Rongmei said the support of his family and the church had played a crucial role in shaping his life and helping him overcome hardships. He stressed the need for communities, faith-based institutions and civil society organisations to work together to protect children and ensure their access to education and opportunities.
Moaienla Pongen, a fifth-semester Bachelor of Social Work student from Tetso College, spoke on the theme of this year's World Day Against Child Labour, "Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults."
She highlighted the adverse impact of child labour on children's physical, emotional and educational development and emphasised the important role churches can play in raising awareness, advocating for children's rights and supporting vulnerable families.
The main speaker, Hillo Tep, delivered a message on faith, compassion and service, encouraging young people to reach out to the unreached through strong faith, trust and perseverance. He urged the youth to become Good Samaritans by extending support and service to those in need while placing their faith and prayers in Almighty God.
The programme concluded with an exchange of prayers between Can Youth and Fellowship Missionary Ministry, symbolising their shared commitment to serving communities and protecting vulnerable children.
Following the event, participants conducted a child labour awareness campaign in and around Burma Camp, covering auto garages, hotels and shops. The campaign sought to sensitise employers, workers and the general public about the harmful effects of child labour and the collective responsibility of society to ensure that every child enjoys a safe, healthy and dignified childhood.
The observance reaffirmed the commitment of Can Youth and its partners to continue advocating for children's rights, promoting education and building a society free from child labour.
