Shillong : SPARK – Bringing Light to Lives, Meghalaya, observed the World Day Against Child Labour 2026 with a week-long awareness and outreach programme under the global theme, “Secure Futures, End Child Labour: Investing in Education and Livelihoods.”
The initiative highlighted the urgent need for increased investments in social protection measures, quality education, and sustainable livelihood opportunities to prevent children from being pushed into child labour and exploitation.
According to reports, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global economic challenges have contributed to a rise in child labour across many parts of the world, as families continue to struggle with unemployment and financial insecurity. In response to these growing concerns, SPARK has remained committed to protecting children’s rights and ensuring access to education for vulnerable children.
For the past 15 years, the organisation has been actively working to rescue children from child labour and other forms of exploitation. Through its interventions, SPARK has helped many children return to school and provided opportunities that enable them to pursue their dreams and build brighter futures.
As part of the observance, awareness programmes were conducted in Bara Bazar Slum, Mawlynrei Trianshnong, Mawlong Umsawli Village, Rangmen Village and Mawphor Pongkung Village. The programmes focused on educating communities about the harmful impact of child labour, which deprives children of their childhood, education, dignity and future while exposing them to abuse and exploitation.
Addressing community members, Ms. Shima Modak emphasized the collective responsibility of society to eliminate child labour and protect children’s rights. She also interacted with parents and highlighted the importance of positive parenting practices and the crucial role families play in ensuring the overall development and well-being of children.
The week-long campaign featured awareness drives, signature campaigns, poster exhibitions and film screenings focused on child labour and child rights. Children actively participated in the programmes by carrying placards and raising their voices against child labour and violations of children’s rights.
On the occasion, SPARK also organized special activities with underprivileged children and conducted visits to shops, business establishments and workplaces. During these visits, owners and managers were sensitized about their legal and moral responsibility to prevent child labour. They were urged not to employ children below the age of 14 years and to support efforts aimed at ensuring every child has access to education and a safe childhood.
One of the major achievements of the programme was the identification and reintegration of several child labourers into the education system. These children have now been enrolled in SPARK Educational Centres and have exchanged rag bags for school bags, symbolizing a fresh start filled with hope, learning and opportunity.
The week-long observance concluded with meaningful interactions among children, families, community members and stakeholders, strengthening collective efforts and commitment towards ending child labour and securing a better future for every child.