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DIMAPUR — In a remarkable display of unity and commitment to the rights of children, about 200 children, youth and adults from diverse backgrounds participated in a walkathon organised by AIDA-Child Friendly Dimapur on September 23.
An update from AIDA stated that the event was aimed at raising awareness about children's rights and promoting community cohesion while championing a clean and safe environment for the younger generation. The walkathon was flagged off at Clock Tower and culminated at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School on the theme "One step towards creating a clean and safe environment for children."
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]In his keynote address, Sangto Longchar, project assistant of Dimapur District Legal Service Authority (DDLSA), enlightened the participants about the national legal services, its components, and the services provided by the legal services authority.
Longchar, who was also the special guest of the event, shed light on key legislations aimed at protecting children including the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection) Act, Child Marriage Act, and POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act).
Emphasising on the event's theme, Longchar stressed the importance of a clean and safe environment for the growth and development of children. He extended his appreciation to AIDA for spearheading such initiatives and urged all the participants to play pivotal role as responsible individuals in creating child-friendly cities.
Rev. Fr. Nebu Mathew, Rector of Don Bosco Campus, Dimapur, in his concluding remarks, reflected on the significant changes that have occurred over the years in the realm of child rights. Drawing a compelling comparison between the past and present, he underscored the importance of the rights enshrined in Article 24 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
He lauded the children, youth and adults for their dedication to raising awareness and encouraged them to become agents of change in nurturing the growth and development of children.
Dr. Alem Sangtam, assistant professor at Discipleship Bible College and president of Nagaland Theological Colleges’ Association (NTCA), invoked blessings through scripture, while Leishen Phom, a representative of Child Rights Club members, enlightened participants about the various activities carried out as part of the children's campaign.
Rev. Fr. Kamil Horo SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Paglam in Arunachal Pradesh, offered words of encouragement. Report stated that Explora Youth Club Dimapur sponsored packaged drinking water for the participants.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Rev. Fr. N Angel Kuldeep SDB, associate director of AIDA.
It mentioned that the walkathon not only served as a platform to advocate for children's rights but also as a testament to the community's commitment to creating a safer and cleaner environment for the future generation
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