Minister pledges government action to protect children’s rights in Bangladesh
Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Minister Professor Dr AZM Zahid Hossain has said the government is sincerely working to implement the election pledges under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to protect children's rights, continuing the legacy of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman and late Begum Khaleda Zia.
"The present government is child-friendly. Children are being involved in various matters by giving priority to their opinions and rights," he said while delivering the chairperson's address at the concluding ceremony of 'Children's Rights Day 2026' and the golden jubilee (50th anniversary) celebration of Bangladesh Shishu Academy at the academy auditorium in the capital today.
Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury attended the programme as the chief guest, while Selima Rahman, chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, was present as the special guest.
Zahid said, "Everyone needs to work together for the overall protection of women and children so that the country can move forward."
At the programme, prizes were distributed among children who won painting competitions organised in different parts of the country. The invited guests also enjoyed cultural performances by the children.
Earlier, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his wife inaugurated the three-day 'Children's Rights Day 2026' and Bangladesh Shishu Academy's golden jubilee celebrations on October 6. Today was the concluding day of the programmes.
Women and Children Affairs Secretary Dr Rowshan Ara Begum delivered the welcome address, while Director General of Bangladesh Shishu Academy Arzu Ara Begum delivered the vote of thanks.
Members of the Bangladesh Shishu Academy Board, senior officials of the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and its subordinate departments and agencies, representatives of child rights organisations, eminent writers, journalists, representatives of civil society, and children from shishu academies in different districts were also present.
