The Day of the African Child which is normally celebrated on June 16th annually, it was initiated by the Organization of African Child Unity. As it honors those who participated in the Soweto Uprising on that day, it also raises awareness of the continuing need for improvement on Education provided to African children.
This day is meant to pay respect to those who participated in the Soweto Uprising in 1976, which led to the death hundreds of African Students. In Soweto , South Africa, black school students marched more than half a mile long, protesting the poor quality of their education and demanding their rights to be taught in their own language. To mark the day some compilations of messages , quotes and sayings were composed its main theme being “ knowing the History significances and how to observe the occasion that owners the Soweto Uprising.
On June 16 every year the governments , NGOS, International organization and Stakeholders gather to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the full realization of the rights of Children in Africa.
This year’s theme is “Eliminating Harmful Practices Affecting Children.” African governments should adopt stronger measures to protect girls from practices that violate their rights.
By Asma Shaban