As Guyana observes Child Protection Week under the theme “Every Child Safe”, the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has made an earnest appeal to all citizens to unite in safeguarding the nation’s children, recognising that the well-being and protection of every child is a shared responsibility.
In her message, Minister Persaud emphasised that this week serves as a crucial reminder of the urgent need for vigilance, compassion, and collective action to uphold the rights of children and secure their futures.
She highlighted the importance of creating an environment where every child is not only safe but also loved and supported.
Moreover, Dr. Persaud, echoing the sentiment, reminded the nation that children deserve more than just policies or laws that exist in theory.
According to her, children need the tangible care, guidance, and proactive action from every adult in their lives.
She stressed that the week’s observance is not simply about raising awareness, but also about strengthening the sense of duty that every Guyanese citizen holds in protecting children.
“This week, as we mark Child Protection Week, under the theme Every Child Safe, we are reminded of something very simple, yet very powerful. Every child deserves love, care, and protection. No child should ever live in fear, and no child should ever feel alone,” Dr Persaud said.
The minister also added that while the government continues to implement strong systems to protect children, true protection is achieved when society stays vigilant, listens, and acts whenever a child is in need.
According to her, issues such as abuse, neglect, bullying, and violence must never be ignored, especially in environments where children should feel most secure.
She also noted that one of the key measures being implemented is the expansion of parenting programmes nationwide.
These programmes are designed to equip parents and caregivers with the necessary tools to raise their children with patience, love, and respect, rather than through fear or punishment.
“Children don’t need violence to learn. They need guidance, respect, and encouragement,” Dr Persaud stressed.
The government has also been working to increase juvenile and teen support programmes.
Moreover, Minister Persaud explained that these programmes provide counselling, mentorship, and safe spaces for young people facing various challenges.
She also shared that this year alone, 10 youth-friendly spaces are being established in several regions, including Regions 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10.
These new facilities will offer young individuals secure environments where they can feel supported, safe, and heard.
Furthermore, in an effort to amplify the voices of children themselves, the Ministry has been organising school and community outreach initiatives, encouraging children to share their thoughts and ideas directly with officials.
In a significant step forward, a children’s conference was held for the first time this year, providing young people with an opportunity to openly express their hopes, fears, and aspirations, and to articulate the kind of future they envision for themselves.
Additionally, Dr. Persaud explained that the message from children was clear: they want to feel safe, respected, and valued, and the government is committed to listening and taking action to ensure those wishes are met.
She also called on every Guyanese, parents, teachers, leaders, and ordinary citizens, to pledge to protect children, to speak out against abuse, and to create safe environments in every community.
As part of this, the Ministry has launched the Child Advocacy Network, known as CAN, which will train volunteers across the country to support efforts in child protection.
This volunteer network will back a nationwide campaign under the slogan “See it, Say it, Stop it.”
The campaign is meant to encourage people to report abuse and step in when they see a child at risk.
“As we observe Child Protection Week, let us remember that keeping children safe is not just the job of government.
It is the responsibility of all of us, every person in each community and region.
A safe child is a happy child, and a happy child grows into a strong adult who will build a better nation,” Dr Persaud said.
As the government continues its efforts to ensure children receive the support and protection they need, the message is clear: every child deserves safety, love, and the opportunity to thrive.
From parenting education to youth-friendly spaces and volunteer networks, these initiatives aim to create a safer environment for all.
Child Protection Week is not just an observance; it’s a call to action for every Guyanese to play a role in safeguarding children and ensuring that no child is left behind in the fight for a safe, happy, and healthy future.
