Organized by the Community Upliftment and Resource Enhancement (CURE), the fishing community of King Gray in Paynesville City came together during weekdays in a remarkable show of solidarity, talking on impactful activities aimed at educating and mobilizing the community to combat child labor.
The project masterminded by CURE commemorates World Day Against Child Labor.
This year’s event, themed “Eradicating Child Labor: Empowering Our Children for a Better Future,” was a day filled with excitement as they group took on the charge to make the difference.
The primary goal was to educate the community about the detrimental impacts of child labor on children’s health, education, and future opportunities.
The daylong program included workshops and presentations serving as eye-openers for many attendees.
The event highlighted the importance of educational and vocational training as sustainable alternatives to child labor, particularly within the fishing industry. A key objective was to foster a community-driven approach to monitoring and preventing child labor.
The event featured insightful educational workshops directed by experts like Mr. Trokon T. Washington, CURE’s Program Director.His sessions delved deep into the legal, social, and economic ramifications of child labor. “Child labor not only deprives our children of their childhood but also hampers their ability to achieve full potential in life,” Washington emphasized.
Youth activist and community developer Mr. Varney Teddy Wilson delivered a stirring presentation on the impact of child labor. “By allowing our children to toil in jobs meant for adults, we are robbing them of their education and the brighter future they deserve,” Wilson stated, urging immediate community action to protect the youth.
Anderson Keah, CURE’s Executive Director and a TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) educator, outlined vocational training opportunities as safer and more beneficial alternatives to hazardous labor. “Education and vocational training are crucial tools in preventing child labor. They equip our youth with skills for better, safer job opportunities,” Keah explai
Reflecting the theme of safety and protection, raincoats were distributed to children and fishermen. This act underscored CURE’s commitment to ensuring safe environments for everyone involved in the fishing industry, especially the vulnerable young workers and market women.
The event concluded with heartfelt thanks from Miss Janet Tarnue, CURE’s Financial Manager. Her closing remarks were a testament to the community’s spirit and resolve. “Today, we’ve taken a crucial step towards eradicating child labor. Your engagement and resolve inspire hope and ensure that our efforts will bear fruit. Let us keep this momentum and continue to safeguard our children’s rights and futures,” Tarnue affirmed.
The celebration of World Day Against Child Labor in King Gray was not just a gathering but a powerful movement against child labor. The community, local leaders, and various organizations came together with a shared goal. The engagement from diverse stakeholders illustrated a united front committed to making a significant difference.
