Empowering the future

BY FAROONA MUJTABA

Children, the embodiment of innocence, wonder, and limitless potential, are the torchbearers of our future. Their laughter, curiosity and boundless energy bring vitality to our lives. Celebrating children and their rights is not just a duty but a privilege. Children's Day, a day dedicated to these young souls, is a global celebration that varies in dates but shares a common theme-the appreciation of childhood. Children's Day is a special observance dedicated to celebrating and promoting the well-being of children.

It is recognised in many countries around the world, often on different dates and with varying traditions. The primary goal of children's Day is to emphasise the importance of children's rights, education and welfare.
Children's Day, celebrated in many countries around the world, aligns with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in several ways:

1. Recognition of Children's Rights
2. Protection from Exploitation
3.Education
4.Health and Well-being
5.Right to Play
6.Participation
7.Protection from Violence

Children's Day often aligns with the principles of the CRC by raising awareness of children's rights, promoting their well-being and fostering a supportive environment for children to go and thrive. It serves as a reminder of the commitment to ensure that all children enjoy the rights and protections outlined in the CRC.

India's Children's Day: In India, Children's Day is celebrated on November 14th, which is the
birthday of the country country's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. Nehru was known for his love for children and this day is dedicated to him to honor his commitment to child welfare and education.
Nehru's vision for children and education was deeply influenced by his belief in democracy and social justice. His vision can be summarised as follows:

Universal Education: Education should be accessible to all, regardless of their social or economic background.
Nurturing Creativity and Talent: He encouraged the development of cultural, artistic and scientific pursuits, which he believed would lead to a well-rounded and prosperous society.
Secular and Scientific Education: Education should be free from religious biases and should promote rational thinking and scientific temper.
Institution Building: Nehru was instrumental in the creation of the Indian Institutions of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutions of Management (IIMs), and other prestigious institutions that have contributed significantly to the country's intellectual and technological growth.

Children's Day:To honor Nehru's affection for children and his dedication to their well-being, Indian celebrates Children's Day on his birthday, November 14th This day is dedicated to promoting the welfare and education of children and celebrating their potential.

Nehru's vision for children and education laid the foundation for the development of the modern Indian education system.
Children's Day is a day to celebrate the potential and innocence of children, a reminder of our responsibility to protect their rights and provide them with a bright future. It's a day to recognize that children are the brightest stars of tomorrow, and our investment in their well-being will determine the course of our world. So, let's cherish and nurture our children on this special day and every day.

Remember, Children's Day is not just about a single day of celebration, it's about creating a better world for our children every day.

Faroona Mujtaba, Educator at Birla Open Minds International School Pampore