The International Labour Organization, ILO, launched the World Day against Child Labour in 2002 to focus attention on the global extent of child labour, the action and efforts needed to eliminate it.

On the twelfth June of each year, the World Day brings together governments, employers and workers organizations, civil society, as well as millions of people from around the world to highlight the plight of child labourers and what can be done to help them.

Correspondent, Emmanuel Okonkwo samples people’s opinion on the essence of the day and reports that the International Labour Organization’s most recent global estimate shows that two hundred and fifteen million children worldwide are involved in child labour, which deprives them of adequate education, health, leisure and basic freedoms violating their rights.

Of these children, more than half are exposed to the worst forms of child labour such as work in hazardous environments, slavery, illicit activities such as drug trafficking and prostitution, as well as
involvement in armed conflict and other forms of forced labour.

Speaking on the significant of the day, the Director Child Development, Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Children Affairs, Mrs. Nkechi Anazodo while listing various achievements of the present administration towards protecting the children’s rights in the state, pointed out that the Obiano government has zero tolerance for child labour and abuse, calling on the general public to report anybody found maltreating children under his or her care as a parent or guardian, to the state Ministry of Social Welfare, Women and Children Affairs for prompt action and punishment of the perpetrator.

Stressing that child labour is an impediment to children’s rights, and a barrier to development, the Director Rehabilitation in the Ministry, Mr. Jude Nwakeme disclosed that the state government has signed into law the “Child Rights Act”, which makes people that still indulge in infringement of children’s rights in the state liable to imprisonment and other charges.

For Mr. Clement Chukwuka an Awka Resident, government should do more in the fight against the inhuman act, as according to him, child labourers may also be exposed to physical, psychological or moral suffering that can cause long term damage to their lives and the society at large.

Another Respondent, Mr. Jude Okoye who described children as gifts from God and as well future hope of any society, called on the masses to help in protecting children against abuse and maltreatment.

The theme for this year’s World Day Against Child Labour is, “Children shouldn’t work in fields, but on dreams”.

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