In Pakistan, the number of child labourers has surged to over 20 million, a stark indication of ineffective laws and insufficient measures to combat this issue. In Punjab alone, the rate of child labour stands at 14%.
Experts have expressed concern that child labour is on the rise, criticizing the government’s lack of effective action despite announced plans. The president of a prominent NGO emphasized the need for a long-term policy to address child labour comprehensively.
In Punjab, over 10 million children are currently out of school and forced into labour. In response, the provincial minister for education has announced plans to provide special compensation for enrolling students in schools. Additionally, the new initiative includes teaching students various skills to enhance their future prospects.
The observation of World Day Against Child Labour serves as a crucial reminder of the urgent need for effective policies and actions to eliminate child labour and ensure all children have access to education and a better future.
