The Ministry of Labour has ramped up its efforts to combat child labour by hosting a dedicated awareness session for students and staff at Stewartville Secondary School. The initiative is part of a broader national campaign to educate young people, teachers, and communities about the dangers and consequences of child labour, and to promote the rights of every child to quality education and a safe childhood.

Empowering Students and Teachers

During the session, Ministry officials engaged students in interactive discussions, highlighting the difference between acceptable forms of youth work—such as age-appropriate chores that do not interfere with schooling—and exploitative child labour, which deprives children of education, health, and development. Teachers were also provided with guidance on how to identify children at risk, monitor attendance, and communicate effectively with parents and guardians about the importance of keeping children in school.

Focus on Prevention and Support

The awareness programme emphasized the legal frameworks in place to protect children and the role of schools in preventing child labour. Students learned about the minimum age for employment, the types of work considered hazardous, and the long-term impact of child labour on individuals and society. The session also encouraged students to speak out if they or their peers are at risk, and provided information on where to seek help.

Community Involvement

Recognizing that child labour is often rooted in economic hardship and social challenges, the Ministry called on parents, community leaders, and local organizations to work together to keep children in school and out of exploitative work. The session at Stewartville Secondary highlighted the importance of community vigilance and support systems to ensure that vulnerable children are not forced into labour.

Ongoing Commitment

The Ministry of Labour reaffirmed its commitment to continuous outreach, monitoring, and enforcement of child labour laws. Future sessions are planned for other schools and communities, with the goal of building a nationwide culture that values education and protects the rights of every child.

Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, the Ministry aims to reduce the incidence of child labour and ensure that all Guyanese children have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.