Twelve S1 and S2 students from the four secondary schools in the Victoria region took part in an open and well animated roundtable discussion on an array of pertinent topics related to their rights, protection, well-being and responsibilities.
The topics were derived from the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child – a legally-binding international agreement setting out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights of every child, regardless of their race, religion or abilities.
Minister Patricia Francourt who hosted the activity was greatly impressed by the exchanges. Judging by the high level of interaction, it was clear how involved and committed the students are in matters regarding their everyday life at school, at home and in the community.
The youngsters from Bel Eau, English River, Mt Fleuri, and Perseverance secondary schools also made recommendations on matters they wanted the Ministry to take up on their behalf.
They left equipped with information on what they can do to safeguard themselves and their peers from various forms of exploitation, services available and whom to contact. The Children Helpline 116 was new to some of them and they were happy to know that it is accessible free of charge for advice or support.
The students will be provided with relevant materials on the Convention of the Rights of the Child and other applicable documents to share with colleagues at their respective schools.
The roundtable discussion initiated as part of activities coinciding with International Children’s Day on June 1st, was also attended by the Director for Social Services, Ms Beryl Laboudallon and the Senior Policy Analyst at Social Affairs Department, Ms Shirley Adrien.
