By Lilian U. Okoro
The Center for the Advancement and Protection of the Rights of Vulnerable People (CAPRIGHTS-VP), has taken campaigns for the protection of child domestic workers (CDWs) to schools in Alimosho, Lagos State.
Speaking at the event in Lagos, the Group’s Advocacy Manager, Mrs Coker Olufunmilola, said the initiative was part of CAPRIGHTS-VP’s Protect Child Domestic Workers Project, supported by the Freedom Fund with funding from the U.S Department of State.
Olufunmilola said the project seeks to reduce children’s vulnerability to domestic servitude, while promoting their rights to education, health, family life, safety, and recreation.
She decried that many child domestic workers remained invisible victims of abuse and neglect.
“Child domestic workers are human beings – children; they deserved to be treated with love, dignity, and respect – not as second-class citizens.
“Our mission is to ensure that they are not denied their right to education and protection.
“Schools play a critical role in shaping attitudes, and we want students, teachers, and counsellors to become strong advocates for children’s rights,” she said.
She, therefore, encouraged the students to serve as change agents, by speaking up against abuse.
She also urged them to call the toll-free line – 0800 800 8001 to report cases of maltreatment outside school, and to notify their teachers or counsellors if they notice signs of neglect or abuse among classmates.
The school counsellors expressed appreciation to CAPRIGHTS-VP for bringing the sensitisation to their schools, describing it as the first initiative to focus specifically on the plights of child domestic workers.
They expressed hope that the lessons shared would inspire students to be more observant, compassionate, and proactive in protecting vulnerable children.
The session also featured interactive discussions to equip students with knowledge on challenging stigma, showing empathy, and fostering safer communities.
According to CAPRIGHTS-VP, creating safe and informed school environments is key to amplifying children’s voices, changing harmful societal attitudes, and ensuring that no child is left behind.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
