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Monday December 23, 2024

CPI, CPB sign three-year agreement for child protection

By Myra Imran
November 08, 2023
Children play in Afghan Basti area on the outskirts of Lahore on the eve of World Refugee Day. — AFP/File
Children play in Afghan Basti area on the outskirts of Lahore on the eve of World Refugee Day. — AFP/File

Islamabad: The Child Protection Institute — Islamabad (CPI) and the Child Protection Bureau - Punjab (CPB) have signed a Letter of Agreement, solidifying their commitment to safeguarding and rehabilitating vulnerable children in Pakistan.

This agreement is part of the efforts to ensure the well-being and future prospects of children who are at risk of exploitation, homelessness, drug addiction, abuse, and neglect. The three-year agreement reflects the deep-seated dedication of both organizations to collaborate effectively and comprehensively on the protection, rescue, and rehabilitation of these children. Key highlights of the Letter of Agreement include coordinated efforts in which both parties pledge to work hand-in-hand to identify, protect, and rehabilitate children who are involved in beggary, homelessness, drug addiction, and those who suffer from abuse and neglect. A critical component of this agreement is the establishment of a robust referral mechanism.

This will ensure that vulnerable children in need are directed to the appropriate services promptly and efficiently. Both institutes also commit to raising awareness about the issues affecting vulnerable children and advocating for their rights, promoting a society where every child can thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. Collaborative efforts will be reinforced by sharing critical data and research findings to improve the effectiveness of child protection strategies and policies. The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from both organisations, government officials, civil society organizations, and key stakeholders in the child welfare sector.

Director General CPI, Rabeea Shah expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, "This partnership is a significant step towards creating a brighter future for the most vulnerable children in our society. We believe that by joining forces with CPB, we can amplify our efforts and have a lasting impact on the lives of countless children." This agreement is expected to set the stage for a new era of child protection and welfare in Pakistan, as both organizations embark on this transformative journey together.