Youth for Social Development conclave held

A two-day 'State Level Conclave with Student Organizations on 'Youth and Social Development' began from November 12 in Guwahati. Organized by the Assam State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (ASCPCR) in partnership with UNICEF Assam, the event efforted to familiarize student organizations with critical aspects of development priorities of the state like health, hygiene, nutrition, education and child protection in alignment with child rights and conclude with a Call to Action for them. The aim is to sensitize the youth of Assam and infuse in them essence of responsibility of being agents of change by creating awareness in the society on issues related to holistic social development in Assam.

India is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children (UNCRC) which sets out the rights that must be realized for children to attain their full potential. In order to achieve the commitment to the principles of children's rights as articulated in the CRC, an engagement is required with critical members of society. In India, with over half the population, or 150 crore, comprising of youth, it is important that they are sensitized and encouraged to play active role as responsible citizens.

Speaking during the conclave ASCPCR Chairperson, Runumi Gogoi said “Child Rights encompasses aspects of access to education, health care and nutrition and plays a critical role in ensuring the holistic development of a child. This orientation is critical as the young are the future leaders and can play a significant role as change-agents in the society".

The conclave will address the student organizations on several negative social norms existing in the society and the subtle role they can play in perpetuating harmful practices by communities hindering societal progress.

Highlighting the importance of the conclave UNICEF Assam, Chief Tusher Rane said that since UNICEF is committed to strengthening child rights in the state he is hopeful that the event will be the start of a long term and productive engagement with youth on their role in taking forward some of the critical issues with regard to development of the state.

Assam Governor, Banwari Lal Purohit will address the student organizations and university student representatives in the pre-valedictory sessions on November 13. Sadin Editor, Anuradha Sarma Pujari shall deliver the keynote address while Gauhati University, Vice Chancellor Mridul Hazarika will deliver the inaugural speech. The conclave will culminate with a Pledge Ceremony wherein all the dignitaries, representatives from student organizations and universities across Assam will vow to do their bit towards ensuring progressive development in the state by signing the pledge card. The pledge is envisaged to be a symbol of their determination towards their prospective action on issues related to child rights. The Pledge Ceremony will be followed by a pre-valedictory session graced by the Principal Secretary to Government of Assam, Social Welfare Department, Ravi Capoor and Commissioner, Youth & Cultural Affairs & Urban Development, Monalisa Goswami.