Islamabad, The International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI) marked Labour Day with a panel discussion on the crucial topics of child labor and the fundamental right to education. Organized by the Department of Teacher Education in collaboration with the Office of Research, Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), the event drew experts to debate and propose solutions for these pressing issues.
According to International Islamic University Islamabad, the panel discussion titled “Empowering Futures: Right to Education vs. Child Labour,” featured a range of specialists including Dr. Tabassum Naz, Director of Schools at the Federal Directorate of Education, and Ms. Nazneen Zehra, Deputy Director (Planning) at Basic Education Community Schools. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Fouzia Ajmal and aimed to highlight the transformative power of education and address the socio-economic factors that contribute to child labor.
Panelists emphasized the essential role of education in empowering individuals and shaping a prosperous society. They discussed the importance of holistic approaches to tackle poverty and inequality, which often drive children into labor. The event underscored the critical role of teachers in eradicating child labor by fostering inclusive and supportive educational environments.
The main outcomes of the discussion stressed community involvement and partnerships as key strategies in identifying and supporting at-risk children, ensuring they have access to educational opportunities.
The session concluded with the participants expressing a renewed commitment to combat the intertwined challenges of child labor and educational disparity, advocating for collaborative efforts to ensure that every child can access education. The event was held at the Fatima tuz Zahra block on the Female Campus of IIUI, attended by students and faculty members from the department.