As we celebrate International Children’s Day, we must never lose sight of the Rights of the Child and ensure that those human rights are protected and demonstrated in how we interact with children in all facets of life.
As far back as 1690, Philosopher John Locke propounded that all children are born innocent and are influenced by their experiences and interaction with the world around them.
The Inkatha Freedom Party recognises and celebrates the innocence of children. We call upon all adults to ensure that our children are nurtured and cared for in accordance with the prescripts of the Constitution of our country, and the legislation enshrined in the Children’s Act. Our legislation is wonderful on paper, however, we need to see that such legislation is implemented at grassroots level, and that children feel the impact in a positive way. The IFP has always acknowledged that children have a right to education but this right needs to be supported by access to nutrition, clothing and a safe home environment. The work of the Early Childhood Development (ECD) sector needs to be supported and provided with the necessary resources to be effective in providing our children with basic skills and confidence as they grow.
It is vitally important that intergovernmental co-operation among the Departments of Social Development, Home Affairs, Health and Education is strengthened, so that the holistic development of the child is ensured and protected. We acknowledge the efforts of educators, healthcare workers and various organisations, such as Child Welfare, which are engaged with the wellbeing of children on a daily basis.
We must acknowledge that it takes a village to raise a child and all of us need to be vigilant in the face of atrocities such as child trafficking and the abuse of children. Whilst we call upon all adults to protect and nurture our children, we also call upon children to care for each other, and abstain from bullying and abusing other children.
Ends.
Contact:
Hon Les Govender, MPL
IFP KZN Spokesperson for Social Development
083 974 4894