By O. J. Udemezue
Awka, Anambra State – May 25, 2024
EU and International IDEA Support Capacity Building for Children’s Parliament in Anambra State
By O. J. Udemezue
Awka, Anambra State – May 25, 2024
In preparation for the upcoming Children’s Day celebration, the European Union (EU) and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) have funded a capacity-building program for the Anambra State Children’s Parliament. The program, which took place at Western Meloch Hotel, Awka, from May 25-26, aimed to equip members of the Children’s Parliament with leadership, advocacy, and governance skills to effectively represent the interests of children in the state.
The training, facilitated by experts from International IDEA, covered topics such as child rights, parliamentary procedures, and policy analysis. Participants also engaged in mock parliamentary sessions, debating and passing resolutions on issues affecting children in the state. The program, implemented by International IDEA under the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Program (RoLAC), seeks to empower children to advocate for the implementation of the provisions of the Child’s Right Law of Anambra State.
“We are proud to support the Anambra State Children’s Parliament,” said EU Representative, Josephine Onah. “Empowering children to take an active role in governance is crucial for building a more inclusive and equitable society.”
The Children’s Parliament is a youth-led initiative providing a platform for children to engage in democratic processes and advocate for their rights. The parliament has promoted children’s participation in governance and held leaders accountable for their actions. The capacity-building program has equipped members with the skills and knowledge to effectively represent the interests of children in Anambra State.
As the state prepares to celebrate Children’s Day, the EU and IDEA’s support serves as a timely reminder of the importance of investing in the next generation of leaders. The highlight of the occasion was the arrival of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Mrs. Chinwe Achogbu, who commended the EU and International IDEA for their support and encouraged the children to take their roles seriously. Mrs. Achugbu emphasized the importance of empowering children to become active citizens and leaders of tomorrow.
The Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, Rt. Hon. Victory Ekwunife, expressed her gratitude to the EU and IDEA in her Vote of Thanks. “Your Excellencies, Honorable Guests, Distinguished Participants, and Fellow Members of the Children’s Parliament, I stand before you today, filled with gratitude and joy, as we conclude this capacity-building program sponsored by the European Union and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). First and foremost, I want to express my deepest appreciation to the EU and International IDEA for believing in us, the children of Anambra State, and investing in our future. Your support has empowered us to become active citizens and leaders, and we are forever grateful…
Thank you all once again, and let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Thank you!”
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