It is with a deep sense of commitment that I celebratewith you today the International Day of the African Child. This day holds a special place in our hearts as it reminds us of the strength, resilience, potential and aspirations of every child across the African continent. The theme for this year, “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time Is Now,” is a call to action.
The International Day of the African Child was established by the Organization of African Unity in 1991 in memory of the students who were brutally murdered during the Soweto Uprising on June 16, 1976. These courageous young individuals took to the streets to protest the poor quality of education and to demand their right to be taught in their own language. Their bravery and sacrifice are a poignant reminder of the importance of education and the enduring spirit of the African child.
Education is not just a fundamental human right; it is the cornerstone of development and progress. It equips our children with the knowledge and skills they need to build better lives for themselves and contribute meaningfully to their communities and nations. When we invest in education, we invest in the future of Africa.
Despite significant progress over the decades, our children continue to face numerous challenges such as Poverty, limited access to quality education, malnutrition, and health issues are just a few of the hurdles that impede their growth and development. Moreover, child labour and exploitation, including child abuse, remain serious concerns that demand our urgent attention.
In Enugu State, we are committed to addressing these challenges head-on. Our government has implemented several programs aimed at improving the lives of our children:
- Educational Reforms: We have prioritized the improvement of our educational infrastructure, ensuring that schools are well-equipped and teachers are adequately trained. We have also increased funding for scholarships and bursaries to support students from underprivileged backgrounds.
- Healthcare Initiatives: Our administration has launched health programs targeting children’s health, including free medical check-ups and vaccinations. We are also working to eradicate malnutrition through school feeding programs.
- Child Protection Policies: Poverty, child labour, and early marriage are among the many challenges that keep children out of school. Recognizing the importance of safeguarding our children, we have enacted and enforced stringent laws against child labour and abuse. We have established child protection units and helplines to ensure that any cases of abuse are promptly reported and addressed.
It is crucial to address the issue of child abuse—a scourge that robs our children of their innocence and potential. Child abuse can take many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, and neglect. Each type of abuse inflicts profound harm, robbing children of their innocence, security, and potential. It is our responsibility to recognize the signs of abuse and to take immediate action to safeguard our children.Education is a powerful tool in the fight against child abuse; by raising awareness and providing accurate information, we can equip our children, parents, teachers, and community members with the knowledge they need to identify and prevent abuse. Schools, such as the Smart School, play a pivotal role in this endeavour. Here, children are not only educated academically but are also taught about their rights, personal safety, and the importance of speaking up.
To our dear students, you are the future of Africa. Your dreams, ideas and your creativity are what will drive our continent forward. The education you receive today will be the foundation upon which you build your tomorrow. Never underestimate the power of your own potential. With hard work, dedication, and the support of your teachers and families, there is no limit to what you can achieve, I equally urge you to speak out if you or someone you know is experiencing any form of abuse, remember that you have the right to be safe and to be heard. If you ever feel uncomfortable or threatened, please reach out to a trusted adult – a teacher, a parent, or a counsellor. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are here to support and protect you.
To our dedicated teachers and school staff: Your role in shaping the minds and futures of our children is invaluable, bearing a significant responsibility, youare on the front lines, interacting with our children daily. Your awareness and proactive approach can make a world of difference. let us be vigilant and proactive in recognizing the signs of abuse. Attend training sessions, collaborate with child protection agencies, and ensure that your classrooms are safe havens for every child.
Furthermore, let us promote open communication with our children, encouraging them to express their concerns without fear of judgment.
In conclusion, the time is indeed now. The urgency of our mission cannot be overstated. The children of Africa are our most precious resource, and their education is the key to unlocking a prosperous and sustainable future for our continent.
Thank you, and may God bless the children of Enugu State and Africa at large.
