QUETTA: Government officials and child protection experts have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding children in Balochistan during a consultative workshop.
The event, organized by the Social Welfare Department and UNICEF, focused on the full implementation of the Balochistan Child Protection Act of 2016. Director General of Social Welfare, Abdul Nasir Dotani, chaired the meeting, which was attended by government officers, social workers, and civil society representatives.
Officials stated that the main goal of the law is to protect every child in the province from physical, psychological, and sexual abuse and to ensure they can grow up in a safe and peaceful environment.
DG Abdul Nasir Dotani announced that effective legal measures are being taken and a comprehensive action plan is being prepared to eliminate child abuse. He called on all segments of society—including parents, teachers, and community leaders—to unite and run awareness campaigns to protect children.
UNICEF representatives pledged their continued support to the Balochistan government, which will include staff training, technical assistance, and awareness programs. Participants agreed that everyone must play a role in building a safe and prosperous future for the children of Balochistan.
Meanwhile the Balochistan Health Department has taken over a semi-government children’s hospital in Quetta following approval from the provincial government.
According to the department, Chief Executive Officer of the Children’s Hospital, Professor Abdullah Jaffar, formally handed over charge to Medical Superintendent of Civil Hospital Quetta, Dr. Saleem Abro.
The Health Department has assumed control of the hospital’s property, equipment, machinery, and staff. Officials said the transfer was carried out under directions from the Balochistan High Court and approval of the provincial cabinet.
Chief Minister Balochistan Jam Kamal Khan has allocated Rs140 million to improve the hospital’s infrastructure and make it fully operational.
