Child Rights Week concludes in Mokokchung

MOKOKCHUNG — The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Mokokchung, wrapped up the observance of Child Rights Week, held from November 14 to the 20th, with a series of awareness and engagement activities centred on promoting and protecting children’s rights.

This year’s celebration was held on the theme ‘Every child matters – Every right counts.’ Since November is also observed as National Adoption Month, special sessions on legal adoption were integrated throughout the week.

The campaign targeted three key areas — institutional care facilities, churches, and the wider community. Under the guidance of District Child Protection Officer Samuel Kapu, the DCPU team reached out to various stakeholders to strengthen child protection mechanisms.

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On November 14, coinciding with Children’s Day, the DCPU visited Care & Support Children Home, Tsumarshiong, Chungtia. A lively painting competition was organised for the children in different age groups.

The event was attended by Ajay Moktan, Assistant Commissioner, Mokokchung, who interacted with the children and concluded the day with a community feast.

On November 16, awareness programmes were conducted at Chungtia Baptist Church and Sabangya Baptist Church. T Asola Imsong, Protection Officer (NIC), DCPU Mokokchung, and Imnatola, District Supervisor, Child Helpline, were the resource persons.

They highlighted the importance of legal adoption procedures, child rights, and the support services available through Childline 1098.

A one-day sensitisation programme on child protection and the provisions of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act was organised on November 19 at the Community Hall, Chungtiayimsen. Resource persons T Asola Imsong and Takotila Jamir, District Supervisor, Child Helpline, addressed community members, with special focus on migrant workers employed at brick kilns and manufacturing units in the Mangkolemba Block area.

The week-long activities concluded with an interactive radio talk show featuring T Asola Imsong (Protection Officer, NIC), Imnatola, and Takotila Jamir (Supervisors, Child Helpline), who discussed various aspects of child rights, reporting mechanisms, and available protection services.

Through these initiatives, the DCPU Mokokchung sought to reinforce the message that safeguarding children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation is a shared responsibility.

The programmes underscored the vital role of families, institutions, churches, and communities in creating a protective and nurturing environment for every child, stated a DCPU official.