KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has highlighted the importance of children as the future foundations of a strong Pakistan, urging that their well-being and development should be a collective priority. He expressed this sentiment during a UNICEF Pakistan concert celebrating World Children’s Day, themed ‘Listen to the Future,’ held at the Pakistan Arts Council. The event was attended by Minister of Education Sardar Shah, UNICEF Representative Mr. Abdullah Fadil, and UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Mohammad Yahya, among others.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, Mr. Shah expressed gratitude for the ongoing commitment to advancing children’s rights and recognized World Children’s Day as a crucial opportunity for Pakistan. He emphasized the need for sustained efforts to ensure that every child has the right to a bright future. Mr. Shah extended his wishes for World Children’s Day to children in Sindh, Pakistan, and globally, reaffirming Sindh’s dedication to child rights. He noted the collaboration with UNICEF and other UN partners in ensuring support for all children.
The Chief Minister praised the diversity showcased at the event, underscoring how children from various regions of Pakistan symbolize the nation’s unity and strength. He expressed appreciation for UNICEF and its partners’ efforts, particularly in alignment with Pakistan’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have been a part of the country’s vision since 2016. Mr. Shah highlighted Pakistan’s adoption of the SDGs as part of a broader mission to implement reforms and investments prioritizing the youth to secure a prosperous future.
With nearly 20 million children in Sindh, Murad Shah acknowledged the province’s significant responsibility and reiterated the need to prioritize children’s well-being, education, and overall development. He welcomed UNICEF’s National Ambassador, Mrs. Saba Qamar, whose recent visit to Sindh has underscored the importance of advocating for child rights.
The Chief Minister called for urgent attention to pressing issues like malnutrition and lack of access to safe water, urging a renewed commitment to ensure all children grow in safe, nurturing environments. He echoed UNICEF’s message for World Children’s Day 2024, “Listen to the Future,” emphasizing that a better future for children is possible if their rights are honored and protected. He concluded by thanking attendees for their commitment and expressed optimism for a brighter future rooted in collective action for the children of Sindh and beyond.