Lahore, Pakistan | November 20, 2025
The Catholic Women’s Organization (CWO) Lahore marked World Children’s Day 2025 with an awareness and advocacy program at St. John’s School and College, Youhanabad, highlighting the rights, dignity, and well-being of children in line with the global theme “My Day – My Right.”
World Children’s Day, observed annually on November 20, commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) and calls attention to the responsibility of governments, institutions, and communities to protect children’s fundamental rights.
Prayer, Reflection, and Awareness
The program opened with prayer and Scripture reading, followed by a welcome presentation by schoolchildren. Ms. Laisha Salamat, Education Project Coordinator of CWO Lahore, outlined the historical background of the day, recalling its origins in 1954 and its focus on promoting children’s rights to life, education, health, protection, and participation.
She emphasized that World Children’s Day provides a platform for children to understand their rights and to express their concerns in a safe and supportive environment.
Children Speak About Their Realities
An interactive discussion was led by Mr. Aftab Afzal, Branch Manager of MCB Islamic Bank, who invited students to speak about their experiences and challenges. Children highlighted issues such as child labor, lack of access to education, and social inequality.
Mr. Afzal noted that World Children’s Day is not merely celebratory but a reminder of the collective responsibility of parents, institutions, and the state to ensure children’s rights are protected and upheld.
Performances Highlight Rights Violations
Students and youth groups presented short performances illustrating the daily struggles faced by children, particularly those forced into labor or denied education. Through drama and creative expression, the children called for greater social awareness and collective action to safeguard their future.
Church and Educators Call for Protection of Children
Addressing the gathering, Sr. John Allah Rakha, Board Member of CWO Lahore, and Mrs. Bernadette Kamal, Principal of St. John’s Boys High School, underlined the importance of education as a path to empowerment and human dignity.
Mr. Ijaz Bhatti, Principal of St. John’s College, Youhanabad, praised the initiative for encouraging young people to raise their voices and to believe in their potential. He stressed that children flourish when they grow in environments marked by safety, respect, and care.
A Shared Commitment to Children’s Dignity
The event concluded with words of appreciation from Ms. Shaheen Yousaf, Diocesan Coordinator of CWO Lahore, who thanked school authorities, teachers, speakers, and students for their collaboration.
More than 300 children and young people participated in the program. Organizers said the initiative reflects the Church’s ongoing commitment to promoting children’s rights in the light of Catholic Social Teaching, especially the preferential option for the poor and the protection of the most vulnerable.
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