Minister: Adopt acronym CHILD

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Students of Dudley Intermediate School perform an item at the International Day for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (PCAN) in Toorak, Suva yesterday. Picture: ATU RASEA

Acting Minister for Women Filimoni Vosarogo has urged adults to adopt and practice the acronym CHILD – Communicate, Help, Invest, Love and Devote.

Officiating at the International Day for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (PCAN) in Toorak yesterday, Mr Vosarogo said these simple yet powerful actions served as pillars of fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for children.

With the theme “Every child is one caring adult away from a success story, it starts with us”, Mr Vosarogo said the sentiment echoed transformation and hope.

“It resonates with the powerful narrative of Josh Shipp, a foster child turned motivational speaker, whose life took a positive turn, thanks to the influence of a caring adult,” he said.

“It reminds us that our actions, our guidance, our care, can script success stories for our children. In a world rife with challenges, our children deserve a robust support system to navigate life’s trials and triumphs.

“Remember, it starts with us — the adults entrusted with the care and well-being of our children.”

Mr Vosarogo said the Department of Social Welfare and Suva Inter-Agency Committee, in collaboration with stakeholders, also conducted activities for children of Suva schools.

“These efforts not only aim to celebrate but also to educate and empower children. Additionally, awareness sessions for adults in the surrounding areas of Toorak highlight the importance of collective responsibility in child protection.”