ISLAMABAD: The Department of Teacher Education in collaboration with the Office of Research, Innovation & Commercialization at the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) arranged a panel discussion to mark Labor Day in which panellists and participants discussed the critical themes surrounding the rights of children to education and the urgent need to address the problem of child labor.
Dr. Shamsa Aziz, Chairperson Department of Teacher Education briefed about the main idea behind organizing the panel discussion. The Panelists included Dr. Tabassum Naz Director of Schools at Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad, Nazneen Zehra Deputy Director (Planning) of Basic Education Community Schools, Islamabad, Shumaila Aslam Principal Ghori Career School, Islamabad, Tabassum Shairwani Khan PhD Education Scholar, IIUI and Sana Naseer BECS School. Dr. Fouzia Ajmal moderated the panel.
Under the theme “Empowering Futures: Right to Education vs. Child Labour,” the panel discussion included a wide array of topics, each shedding light on different dimensions of the problem.
The panel agreed on the importance of education as a fundamental right for every child. They stressed that access to education not only empowers individuals but also plays an important role in shaping a prosperous society.
Addressing the underlying socio-economic reasons contributing to child labor was another focal point of the discussion, the panellists emphasized the need for holistic approaches that tackle inequality, poverty, and lack of opportunities, which often force minors into labor.
Child Labor
Panellists underlined the pivotal role of teachers in eradicating child labor and promoting education. They stressed the role of educators in creating inclusive and supportive learning environments that encourage children to stay in school and pursue their dreams.
The main takeaways of the discussion included community involvement as a key factor in combating child labor.
The panellists underlined the importance of community partnerships and grassroots initiatives in identifying at-risk children and providing them with educational opportunities.
