Islamabad :Secours Islamique France (SIF) commemorated Universal Children’s Day with child centres staff and children in district Rawalpindi. The day is marked on November 20 each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children's welfare. The event was attended by more than 250 children from the child centres including centres staff, government officials, parliamentarians and representatives from the civil society organisations. SIF head of mission in Pakistan Dr. Iftikhar said “Universal Children’s day provide us an opportunity to recommit ourselves to work for the wellbeing of every child including his or her right to life, health, education, recreation and protection from violence.” The programme was attended by large number of civil society activists and political stake holders. Talking to the audience Member of Punjab Assembly Raja Hanif Advocate said that the government is taking all necessary steps to counter child labour from Pakistan. We have made number of laws to protect rights of children in Punjab. Member of Punjab Assembly Lubna Rehan said that the government has made compulsory education policy to educate the children in all areas of Punjab. She said that government is doing sincere efforts to protect the rights of children at provincial and federal level. Secours Islamique France (SIF) is an INGO working in Pakistan since 2010. SIF Pakistan Mission is implementing Child Welfare program in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and adjoining areas. SIF through its child welfare program has introduced integrated child welfare activities with focus on child nutrition, hygiene and mental wellbeing through recreational activities. SIF strives to provide assistance to children so that they can live their lives in a dignified manner.
