By Deng Ghai Deng
In a colourful and spirited celebration of World Children’s Day 2024, students and Young Reporters from all over Bor were hosted in Bor A Mixed Nursery and Primary School where a series of engaging activities designed to promote child rights, creativity, and well-being were done.
The event, which took place on November 20th, featured cultural performances, games, art competitions, and a health booth offering free medical checkups.
The highlight of the day was a festival of performances where children took centre stage, delivering powerful messages about child rights, including education, protection, and the need for gender equality.
Through dances, songs, and speeches, young participants emphasized the importance of education for both boys and girls and the critical need for parental support and protection.
Danial Magot Anyar, a pupil from Amazing Grace Primary School shared his thoughts on the event.
“It’s important that all children, no matter where they come from, have the right to education and to be safe. I am proud to be part of an event where children like me can express our rights to the world,” Magot said.
In addition to the cultural festivities, UNICEF Young Reporters, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, set up a health booth that provided free medical checkups.
The initiative successfully detected 20 cases of malaria among children, with medical professionals offering recommendations for further treatment in Bor State Hospital.
Yar Solomon Ayuen, a pupil from New Sudan Primary School, who also participated in the event, said:
“I was so happy to be part of today’s activities. We learned a lot about our rights, and we also got checked by doctors. It’s important to be healthy and safe so that we can go to school and learn.”
Elijah Mayen, Director General of the State Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare, also addressed the gathering, stressing the vital role of education and the ongoing support of humanitarian partners in Jonglei and South Sudan.
“Children are the future of our nation. Let’s ensure that both girls and boys, including children with disabilities, have equal access to education. We appreciate UNICEF’s support and urge parents to play their part in ensuring a brighter future for their children,” Mayen said.
This year’s World Children’s Day theme, “Listen to the Future,” aimed to amplify the voices of children and empower them to take active roles in their communities.
UNICEF Young Reporters in Bor successfully used the platform to raise awareness on the critical issues affecting children’s well-being while encouraging young people to speak up about what matters most to them.