Every 20th of November, the world observes Universal Children’s Day, a day dedicated to promoting and advocating for children’s rights. This day highlights the importance of advocating for children’s wellbeing worldwide. As South Africans, we should reflect on our own progress in upholding the rights of children and always remember that every child has the right to safety, education, and opportunities to succeed.
Universal Children’s Day was established by the Unted Nations in 1954 to promote awareness of children’s rights and foster international solidarity.
In South Africa, the Constitution supports and protects the rights of all children under the Children’s Act (2005). This act emphasises on the need to protect the interest of children such as education, health and very importantly, their protection from abuse.
Children’s constitutional rights in South Africa include:
- The Right to Basic Education: All children are entitled to free and compulsory education up to Grade 12. This right seeks to bridge socio-economic gaps and ensure equal opportunities for every child.
- The Right to Protection: All children should be protected from all kinds of abuse, violence and exploitation. They should also be protected from neglect. Institutions like the Department of Social Development work tirelessly to intervene in cases of child abuse.
- The Right to Family or Parental Care: Every child has the right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, whether with their biological family or through alternative care arrangements.
- The Right to Health Care: Children in South Africa are entitled to access health services, including immunizations and nutrition programs, to ensure their physical well-being.
As a country we have seen some improvements in advancing children’s rights, however we still face challenges like poverty, inequality, violence and abuse that hinder the fulfilment of these rights. According to UNICEF, over 60% of children live in poverty, impacting their access to education, health care, and nutrition.
Universal Children’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work that lies ahead. Here’s how South Africans can contribute:
- Advocate for Child Protection
- Support Education
- Raise Awareness
- Engage in Policy Discussions:
As we commemorate this day, BAAGI News reached out to children from Mogale City to hear their dreams and aspirations:
- “I want to be a nurse just like my mother and help sick people in my community,” says 11-year-old Lethukuthula.
- “I love reading books, and I want to write children’s books,” shares 9-year-old Reneiloe.
These voices remind us why Universal Children’s Day is so important—it’s about giving every child the chance to dream, grow, and succeed.
Let us celebrate Universal Children’s Day acknowledging and committing to creating a future where child in South Africa is safe, educated, loved and empowered. By investing in children today, we ensure a brighter tomorrow for all.