Nice promotes children’s rights in Blantyre District

National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust has launched an awareness campaign on children’s rights in Blantyre District.

Speaking on Wedneday at Dziwe Primary School in Chileka and Malaka Primary School in Lirangwe, Blantyre district civic education officer Gloria Maulidi said pupils have rights to education, life and good health.

She said learners can report to relevant authorities when they feel their rights have been violated.

“You need to know your rights and realise if someone infringes on them. Don’t hesitate to report abuse,” said Maulidi.

She told the learners to exercise their rights with responsibility and listen to their teachers and parents.

Blantyre district social welfare officer Stephano Joseph said there are many forms of abuse children face in society.

He told the pupils that when their parents abandon them or do not support them financially, they can demand the support from them.

“Do not tolerate abuse. Defilement and indecent assault are punishable by law. Don’t keep secrets. Tell your parents, teachers, or other people you trust,” said Joseph.

Blantyre Rural chief education officer Rebecca Misiri said children have the responsibility to guard against any violation to their right to education.

The campaign is supported by Unicef and is implemented in 10 districts.