In August 2025, the Children of India Foundation (CIF), in collaboration with Pratyek, nominated two young advocates to participate in a two-day Children’s Parliament Training. The program was designed to strengthen leadership skills, build awareness of rights, and inspire children to take an active role in decision-making in their schools and communities.
The Participants
Alisha, a Class 9 student, is a bright and curious learner with a deep interest in social issues and helping her peers.
Rakshita, also in Class 9, is confident, outspoken, and eager to take on leadership roles in her community.
Both students were selected for their commitment to learning and their potential to inspire others.
Learning through Experience
The training brought together children from different backgrounds and organisations in a safe and participatory space. Over two days, the sessions combined discussion, art, and interactive activities to help children understand and reflect on their rights.
The first day introduced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), focusing on survival, development, protection, and participation. Through storytelling and real-life examples, children explored how these rights connect to their own lives. Creative activities such as drawing and role-play gave them opportunities to express ideas with clarity and confidence.
The second day introduced the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Children worked in groups to identify which goals were most relevant to their communities and brainstormed practical actions they could take to support them. This process not only deepened their awareness of global issues but also helped them link international commitments to local realities.
Voices of Change
Alisha and Rakshita spoke openly about the challenges faced by children in waste-picking communities. They highlighted concerns such as school dropouts, child labour, and the lack of awareness of rights. By engaging with peers from other organisations, they explored possible solutions and gained confidence in presenting their ideas.
Reflecting on her experience, Alisha shared, “I learned that children have the right to speak and be heard. Now I feel confident to share my ideas with others in school and in my community.”
Rakshita echoed this sense of empowerment, saying, “The training showed me that even small steps by children can bring change. I want to encourage my friends to stay in school and support each other.”
Building Leaders for Tomorrow
The training strengthened key skills in public speaking, problem-solving, and teamwork. It also encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and self-reflection. Alisha and Rakshita returned with renewed motivation to serve as peer leaders and role models. They have already begun sharing their learnings with classmates and community members, encouraging open discussions on education and child rights.
The Children’s Parliament initiative is helping to amplify young voices, ensuring that children are not only participants but also leaders in shaping the future of their communities. The experience of Alisha and Rakshita is a powerful reminder that when children are given the tools and space to lead, they can inspire change far beyond themselves.
