Officials along with the students pose for a photo during the joint Children's Day held in Kiusam Town on November 14.
Kiusam, November 15 (MExN): St John School, Kiusam Town, in collaboration with Government Middle School (GMS), Kiusam, organised their first-ever joint Children's Day celebration on Saturday, with the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Kiphire, coordinating the programme.
The event was attended by District Child Protection Officer N S Khaikho, Legal-cum-Probation Officer Bandangwati Sangtam, Child Helpline Project Coordinator Levi Aom, St John School Principal Rev Fr Thomas Toretkiu, headmasters, teachers, parents and students of both schools.
Welcoming the gathering, Toretkiu said Children's Day celebrated the innocence, dreams and potential of every child. He reminded parents, teachers and society of their responsibility to protect, nurture and guide children, adding that those who grow up experiencing love, safety and respect become responsible and compassionate citizens.
Addressing the gathering, Khaikho highlighted the four fundamental rights of children — survival, development, protection and participation. He stressed the importance of ensuring access to education, healthcare and safety, while providing children opportunities to express their opinions.
Sangtam explained Mission Vatsalya, a government initiative aimed at promoting child protection, rehabilitation and family-based care. He also highlighted the legal minimum age of marriage, which is 18 years for girls and 21 years for boys, and cautioned against child marriage.
Levi Aom conducted an interactive demonstration on good touch and bad touch, educating children about personal safety and encouraging them to report uncomfortable situations to trusted adults or contact Child Helpline 1098.
The celebration featured cultural performances, individual and group dances, and special presentations by teachers and students of both schools.
David, Headmaster of St John School, anchored the programme, while Ajong Longchar proposed the vote of thanks.
In a special gesture, the DCPU distributed gifts to displaced children as a mark of solidarity and care. Prizes were also presented to students for activities conducted throughout the year.
The celebration continued with refreshments, cake and sweets, followed by a friendly football match aimed at strengthening friendship and unity among the children.
The programme concluded with the school anthem and the Lord's Prayer, conveying a message of love, protection, dignity and hope for every child.
