Shillong, Oct 11: SPARK celebrated International Day of the Girl Child on Tuesday.
The theme for 2022- ” Our Time is Now- Our Rights, Our Future” focuses on multiple challenges faced by the girls in their path to success.
“Things got worse by climate change, Covid- 19 and gender biasness around the world”, said Shima Modak, the founder of SPARK.
Girls struggle with issues related to their education, mental and physical health besides fighting exploitation.
SPARK organised an awareness programme to empower and build the capacity of the girl child to understand their rights and be able to stand on their own feet.
The programme was held at Mawlong village, Mawlynrei Triashnong village, Pongkung village, Bara Bazaar slum and Nongmen Nongsder village.
SPARK enrolled a large number of girl children into education since it is the most important tool to bring about positive changes in their lives.
“From going to school to helping in household work, to working in the factories, caring for the elders and younger family members and finally preparing themselves to take on the responsibilities of adulthood, they excel in every field. Hence, there is no denial to the fact that girls play important and multiple roles in the household, society and the economy as well”, Modak said.
SPARK said it has also come across several cases of crime against girl child during the pandemic. “Hence, special training was provided to them and the communities in different areas to protect girl children to stop any kind of abuse”, she said.
The children held placards to raise their voice against abuse which has been on the rise during Covid-19.
“The need of the hour is to join hands together to protect the daughters of state and nation today so that they can protect our nation tomorrow”, Modak said.
