Islamabad, On the occasion of International Children’s Day, UNICEF has appointed 16-year-old Taqwa Ahmed, a social activist, author, and motivational speaker from Gujranwala, Punjab, as its first Youth Advocate in Pakistan. This appointment aims to inspire children to voice their rights and contribute to positive societal changes. Taqwa, known for her work in promoting inclusion, disability rights, and education, will represent the youth of Pakistan in advocating for their rights and empowerment.
According to United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Taqwa Ahmed’s appointment is a significant step towards highlighting and addressing the issues faced by children and youth in Pakistan. On her appointment, Taqwa expressed her happiness and stated her commitment to representing the feelings of the youth, protecting their rights, and empowering others. She envisions a future where every child in Pakistan has access to quality education and healthcare, ensuring their growth in a safe, supportive, and egalitarian environment.
As UNICEF Youth Advocate, Taqwa will focus on raising awareness about children’s rights and youth issues. She recently participated in a special UNICEF initiative on International Children’s Day, meeting with the President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi, along with five other children’s representatives. The delegation, comprising children from various backgrounds and regions of Pakistan, discussed critical issues such as climate change, equitable education, and gender inequality, emphasizing the need for urgent action from national leaders and decision-makers.
Pakistan’s children face numerous challenges, including vulnerability to climate change effects, catastrophic weather events like floods, droughts, and heatwaves. Over 2.2 million children in the country are out of school, depriving them of key learning and growth opportunities. High rates of malnutrition and poverty also pose significant threats to their survival and well-being. Children with disabilities remain one of the most vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Abdullah Fazil, head of UNICEF in Pakistan, expressed pride in Taqwa’s appointment and commended her inspiring journey. He highlighted her triumph over spinal disease and achievements as a karate champion despite being wheelchair-bound, describing her as a beacon of hope for children, especially girls.
UNICEF’s commitment to working with youth, social workers, and children’s rights advocates is aimed at supporting a new generation of social change leaders. The organization strives to build an inclusive and equitable Pakistan, where the rights of all children are protected, and their potential is fully recognized, to ensure a brighter future for them.