The Environmental Women in Action for Development (EWAD), an implementing partner of the Work No Child’s Business project (WNCB) in Busia district Uganda has expressed concern about the continued existence of child labor in some schools in Uganda.
According to the organisation, cases of child labor in schools are on the rise. For example on 14 March 2023 in Butaleja district, three children died at Golden Heart Junior School after a wall they were breaking on instructions of their teacher crushed on them.
“In a world where education is universally regarded as the cornerstone of a prosperous future, it is disheartening to witness child labor within the very institutions responsible for nurturing young minds. As schools across the country officially open for yet another academic term, EWAD is urging schools to take decisive action and totally eliminate child labor within their premises. This call to action by EWAD also comes as the world is gearing up to mark the world day against child labor which falls on every 12 June due next week,” said Margaret Tuhumwire, Coordinator Work No Childs Business (WNCB) project Busia district.
According to Tuhumwire, Child labor is a grave violation of human rights that impedes children’s physical and mental development, denies them access to education, and perpetuates a cycle of poverty and inequality. Shockingly, it is happening within the very walls of educational institutions, undermining the principles they should uphold.
“We believe that schools should be sanctuaries of learning, fostering environments that nurture children’s talents and empower them for a brighter future. It is with deep concern that we note the persistence of child labor in schools, where young children are subjected to exploitative conditions that deprive them of their rights and rob them of their childhood. These activities include hazardous labor, long hours of farm work while others are studying, maintenance work, or even providing services for the school community at a covert fee paid to teachers or school heads. Such practices not only compromise their physical safety but also undermine their well-being and educational opportunities,” she said.
He added, “We call on school administrators, educators, policymakers, and parents around the world to join us in this crucial endeavour to eliminate child labour within educational settings. It is imperative that schools take the following actions to protect and promote the rights of every child.”
Among other suggestions, the organisation called for; Adoption of strict policies where Schools must establish and enforce clear policies explicitly prohibiting child labour within their premises. These policies should align with international conventions and national laws protecting children’s rights, ensuring zero tolerance for child labor.
- Raising awareness and education: Schools should integrate comprehensive education on child labor into their curricula, creating opportunities for school children to understand the gravity of the issue and its consequences. By fostering empathy and social responsibility, we can empower the younger generation to become advocates against child labor.
- Strengthening collaboration: Schools should collaborate with local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and relevant stakeholders to develop strategies that address child labor effectively. By joining forces, we can establish support networks and implement sustainable interventions that protect children and create lasting change.
- Monitoring and reporting mechanisms: Schools must establish robust systems for monitoring and reporting suspected cases of child labor. This includes implementing confidential reporting channels and ensuring that reports are promptly investigated and appropriate action is taken to protect the rights and well-being of the child.
- Supporting vulnerable families: Schools should work closely with families living in vulnerable conditions, providing access to social services, education, and economic opportunities. By addressing the root causes of child labor, we can break the cycle and create a future where all children can thrive.
- Create friendly learning environment to foster learning, attract and retain children in school.
“By taking these crucial steps, schools can serve as beacons of change, demonstrating their commitment to upholding children’s rights and creating safe, nurturing, and inclusive educational environments,” she said.
EWAD and other implementing partners under the WNCB will continue taking bold steps towards the progressive and total elimination of child labor through empowering and supporting schools, communities, businesses and leaders in this endeavor and in this context invites all educational institutions and other stakeholders to join us in making a collective stand against child labor in schools. Together, we can build a world where every child is free to learn, grow, and dream.