UNICEF praises Punjab govt’s child protection initiatives

Punjab has become the first province to approve a comprehensive Child Protection Policy, safeguarding children's rights by providing safe shelter, food, education, healthcare, psychological, and legal assistance. This policy ensures the safety of children and brings perpetrators to justice, according to Additional Secretary Home for Foreigners National Security Ayesha Mumtaz during a meeting with a UNICEF delegation.

The delegation, consisting of Sidahmed Abdullah, Muhammad Khalid Irfan, Deputy Secretary Muhammad Murtaza, Deputy Secretary Jamal Fazil, and Muhammad Asadullah Gondal, discussed the overall law and order situation in Punjab and measures taken for the protection and welfare of children.

UNICEF praised the Government of Punjab's efforts in protecting women and children, which are among the Chief Minister's top priorities. The delegation toured the Digital Media and Public Outreach Cell of the Punjab Home Department, where Director Public Relations Tauseef Sabih Gondal explained the "Haya and Bahadur" animated cartoon series, designed to promote child protection awareness.

The series teaches children to recognize inappropriate physical behavior and report it, while parents and teachers are encouraged to educate children about personal safety. The Home Department is also incorporating awareness about "Good Touch, Bad Touch" into early-grade classes, enabling children to understand personal safety from a young age.

This campaign is expected to play a crucial role in protecting children from abuse and sexual exploitation.