Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, Nov 4, 2025 (BSS) - Speakers at a conference here in the district today stressed the need for integrated efforts from government agencies, non-governmental organizations and communities to ensure the welfare and development of underprivileged children.

They said coordinated initiatives can help transform disadvantaged children into responsible citizens by ensuring their rights to education, health, nutrition and protection.

The views came at the annual conference of underprivileged children, organized by Caritas Rajshahi Region under its "Alokito Shishu (Enlightened Children) Project" at the Caritas office conference hall, with support from Caritas Germany.

The event was held under the slogan "Let Us Say Yes Together to Street Children."

Deputy Director of Local Government Zakiul Islam attended as the chief guest with Caritas Regional Director Arok Tappo in the chair.

In his keynote presentation, Professor Fakhrul Islam of the Department of Social Work at Rajshahi University highlighted the current situation of street and disadvantaged children and recommended measures for their upliftment.

Other speakers included District Probation Officer Muhammad Asaduzzaman, Deputy Director of the Department of Women Affairs Shabnom Shirin, Deputy Inspector General of the Department of Inspection for Factories and Establishments Jahangir Alam and Editor of the Daily Sonar Desh Akbarul Hassan Millat.

Rancy Rooth Hasda, Programme Officer of the Alokito Shishu Project, presented the project's objectives and achievements, noting that around 850 children from slums and underprivileged families in Rajshahi are receiving education, healthcare, nutrition, psychosocial support and shelter services through the initiative.

The project aims to protect the rights of street-connected children by providing them with access to basic needs, rehabilitation support and awareness on child rights among communities and local authorities.