SSSD promotes children’s awareness of their rights

International Child Helpline Day

The initiative coincides with the International Child Helpline Day. On this occasion, SSSD organises awareness campaigns and a variety of activities targeting government and private schools, as well as child-focused centres across Sharjah. The aim is to highlight the importance of the child helpline in offering protection and support for children.

The campaign is delivered by a team of social workers, legal researchers, psychologists, and social educators from the Child and Family Protection Centre, along with the Social Education Department and educators from the Department’s branches. These sessions are being held in both public and private schools throughout the emirate.

A safe environment that respects dignity

The initiative targets 575 children across Sharjah, providing educational and awareness programs designed to inform them of their fundamental rights and empower them to report and seek help in the event of abuse or neglect.

This initiative is part of SSSD’s broader vision to support all children, including those with disabilities, by raising their awareness within a safe environment that respects their rights and preserves their dignity. The program also aims to help children understand their rights, equip them with the tools they need to protect themselves, and ensure an environment that fosters healthy and safe development.

A range of rights are covered

Fatima Al Marzouqi, Director of the Child and Family Protection Centre, stated that these awareness programs are part of SSSD's ongoing efforts to safeguard children's rights and increase their awareness.

She explained that SSSD is constantly working to provide all necessary means to ensure a decent life for children and to enable their healthy growth so they may become active contributors to society.

Al Marzouqi added that the initiative extends beyond the city of Sharjah and includes all cities within the emirate in a comprehensive step targeting child-focused centres to ensure the message reaches children of all backgrounds.

She noted that SSSD, through the Child and Family Protection Centre, continues to strengthen its efforts to protect children from all forms of abuse and neglect. This reflects the department’s vision of building a safe and supportive community for children. She pointed out that the "I Have a Voice" initiative is one of the specialised programs that contributes to instilling the values of justice, equality, and dignity in children while fostering an ideal environment that guarantees their rights and supports their future aspirations.

Focus on children’s fundamental rights

The program covers a series of core topics that focus on children’s fundamental rights. These include the right to a dignified life and government support to meet their basic needs, as well as the right to justice, healthcare, and education to promote equality and ensure equal opportunities.

It also addresses protection from abuse and exploitation, the promotion of community safety for children, and the right to express opinions and participate socially key factors in ensuring that children feel empowered and integrated. In addition, it offers special care for children with disabilities tailored to their unique needs and requirements. The program also ensures a balance between protection and leisure by promoting the right to play, recreation, and privacy.