The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Tseminyu, conducted its first consultative meeting with District Administration, Tseminyu, and key stakeholders from across the district on 18th November 2024 at the DC Conference Hall, Tseminyu. A press release informed that the event was organized as part of the Child Rights Week with the aim to discuss the progress, challenges, and collaborative efforts in promoting and protecting children’s rights within the district.

The Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu Rohit Singh (IAS), who delivered the keynote address, emphasized the block-wise sensitization initiatives conducted during Child Rights Week, the pivotal role of the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) and the significance of children-related legislation. He also reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting children’s rights and addressing violations against them. He further stressed the significance of cross-sectoral collaboration—including education, healthcare, law enforcement, and community organizations—to safeguard and promote children’s rights to education, healthcare, and protection from exploitation.

District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) Janet P. Swu, in her welcome address, emphasized the importance of collective action, collaboration, and strengthening child welfare and protection mechanisms in the district.

The press release also informed that the meeting was structured into several informative sessions, each focusing on different aspects of child rights and protection within the district. Key stakeholders presented updates and reports on their respective areas of work:

LCPO (Legal & Child Protection Officer) – Mission Vatsalya

LCPO (Legal & Child Protection Officer) Tseminyu, Neivotuonuo Rutsa delivered a detailed presentation on Mission Vatsalya, a scheme under the Ministry of women and child Development that lays emphasis on Child Rights, Advocacy & awareness along with strengthening of the Juvenile Justice care and protection systems with the motto “to leave no child behind.” She further, highlighted the Vision, Mission and objectives of the mission and how Mission Vatsalya broadly cater to children in conflict with law and Children in need of care and protection which includes Children in vulnerable, risk or difficult circumstances, missing, abandoned, orphaned, trafficked, substance abuser, HIV infected, destitute and children of family at risk. The LCPO explained that the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 forms the basic framework for the implementation of Mission Vatsalya.

Project Coordinator – Child Helpline (1098)

Project Coordinator Child Helpline (1098) Kvulo Kent, provided a comprehensive update on the operations and impact of the helpline in the district. The Project Coordinator also discussed ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the helpline, including outreach to schools, communities, and local authorities.

Child Welfare Committee (CWC)

Child Welfare Committee (CWC), Chairman Jetilo Apon presented a report on its recent activities and achievements. The committee reported on its efforts to provide interim care, counselling, and rehabilitation services to children, as well as its work in establishing juvenile homes and foster care systems.

The meeting concluded with closing remarks by the Protection Officer (NIC) Ajano Ezung.

All stakeholders committed to working together towards a safer and more supportive environment for children, reaffirming their shared responsibility in advancing the cause of child rights.