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The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, in collaboration with the Ministry of Law & Justice, has successfully launched the ‘Islamabad Capital Territory Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Rules, 2022’. The launch event, held at the Islamabad Model College for Girls (IMCG), F-10/2, was supported by the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Pakistan.
During the launch, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Education and Professional Training, highlighted the significance of these rules in safeguarding children’s rights and promoting a culture of non-violence. He called for collective efforts to effectively implement the rules and create an environment where every child feels secure and cared for. Rana also expressed his intention to engage with provincial education ministries to encourage similar measures.
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Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Law and Justice, commended the stakeholders on implementing the corporal punishment rules. He emphasized that morals and values cannot be enforced through coercion or punishment and acknowledged that this step was in the right direction. Tarar pledged full support for future child rights initiatives and related legislation.
The launch of the ‘Islamabad Capital Territory Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Rules, 2022’ marks a significant milestone in protecting children from corporal punishment in the capital territory. These comprehensive rules, immediately effective, are under the ‘Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Act, 2021′. They demonstrate the government and stakeholders’ commitment to eradicating corporal punishment and creating a safe environment for children.
Mehnaz Akber Aziz, Convener of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights and Parliamentary Secretary Law and Justice, emphasized the transformative impact of these rules on children’s lives. She highlighted that the launch signifies a crucial step towards protecting children and providing safe spaces for their growth and development. Aziz expressed hope that the rules would encourage the enrollment of the currently 2.4 million out-of-school children. She acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Federal Minister for Education, the Federal Minister for Law, and the then Speaker of the National Assembly in advancing this essential legislation.
Abdullah A. Fadil, representative of UNICEF in Pakistan, underscored the immediate and long-lasting negative effects of corporal punishment on children. He called for unified action to support the Act, enabling all children in Pakistan to learn and thrive in a safe environment that upholds their rights and dignity. Shehzad Roy, head of Zindagi Trust, reiterated his commitment to raising awareness about this issue nationwide and stressed the need to change the mindset of parents and teachers.
Following the speeches, a pledge-taking ceremony was held, with heads of various education departments, public and private schools, madrasas, orphanages, and SOS villages committing to fully implementing these rules in their institutions. The launch event concluded with a poignant skit performed by children, emphasizing the urgency of eliminating corporal punishment and nurturing environments for the younger generation.
The launch ceremony witnessed active participation from key stakeholders, including Ayesha Raza Farooq, Chairperson National Commission for Child Rights, Zamurad Khan, head of Sweet Homes Orphanage, representatives from the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, Ministry of Law & Justice, civil society members, media, dignitaries, stakeholders, and school children.
