The Ministry Of Gender Children And Social Protection has announced plans to launch a program aimed at rehabilitating street children.
To begin, the Ministry on Thursday, August 8, 2024, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) to spearhead a groundbreaking initiative aimed at removing children from the streets and integrating them into educational and support systems. The initiative is a response to the increasing number of street children in Liberia’s urban centers, and it reflects a commitment to safeguarding the rights and well-being of these vulnerable youths.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Monrovia, with notable attendees including Minister Gbeme Horace Kollie , and and her team. The partnership between the Ministry and the PUL is seen as a significant step in addressing the social challenges faced by street children, many of whom are at risk of exploitation, abuse, and neglect.
Minister Kollie emphasized the critical importance of the initiative, stating, “This partnership with the Press Union of Liberia marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to provide every child in Liberia with a safe, nurturing environment. We are determined to work together to ensure that street children are given the opportunities they deserve to access education, healthcare, and a brighter future.”
Under the terms of the MOU, the Ministry of Gender will collaborate with the PUL to launch public awareness campaigns, provide educational outreach, and establish safe spaces and vocational training programs for street children. The PUL, leveraging its extensive network of media professionals, will play a key role in raising awareness about the plight of street children and advocating for their rights.
Mr Clarence Y Jackson, a prominent Journalist spoke on behalf of the PUL expressing the Union’s dedication to the cause, stating, “The Press Union of Liberia is honored to partner with the Ministry of Gender in this crucial initiative. We believe that by using the power of the media, we can bring attention to the issues facing street children and mobilize the support needed to make a real difference in their lives.”
The initiative will initially be piloted in Monrovia, with plans to expand to other regions as the program gains momentum. The Ministry and the PUL are also seeking collaboration with international organizations and donors to ensure the sustainability and impact of the initiative.
The MOU signing has been widely praised as a proactive step towards addressing the challenges faced by street children in Liberia. As the initiative begins to take shape, there is hope that it will lead to significant improvements in the lives of some of the country’s most vulnerable young citizens.
By: Blesset D. Kpenkennie
