Ranchi: Speaking up for their rights, 10 child reporters from different government schools in Ranchi district gathered today to interact directly with the Deputy Commissioner of Ranchi, Shri Manjunath Bhajantri, IAS, at an interaction session convened by UNICEF Jharkhand and Nav Bharat Jagriti Kendra (NBJK) under the ongoing Child Reporters Programme.

The session provided a platform for the child reporters to share stories of their on-ground efforts, such as the re-enrolment of dropout students, challenging gender discrimination, and mobilising communities to remove alcohol vendors near school campuses etc. 

They also shared how their collective voices contributed to a key amendment in the Savitribai Phule Kishori Samriddhi Yojana, which provides financial aid for girls’ education.

In addition, the children raised critical issues in their schools, including lack of boundary walls, damaged roofs, and unsafe or absent access roads. 

They also posed thoughtful questions to the DC about his role as Deputy Commissioner, the functioning of the district administration for child welfare, and sought his advice on becoming an IAS officer, overcoming life’s challenges, and reaching their full potential.

Responding to their concerns and achievements, Shri Manjunath Bhajantri, IAS, said:"It is deeply encouraging to hear these children speak so confidently about the challenges they face and the change they are driving. Their questions were thoughtful, their experiences moving, and their ideas full of promise. We are committed to listening and responding — and to working together to create a safer, healthier, and more inclusive future for every child."

In her address, Ms. Astha Alang, Communication Specialist, UNICEF Jharkhand, said: "Children’s voices are powerful tools for advocacy and very important in bringing about positive changes. When they speak about the issues that affect them, it brings attention, empathy, and most importantly, changes. This programme was created to amplify those voices and ensure they are heard by people in positions of power."

Sharing her thoughts on the occasion, Ms. Priti Srivastava, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, said, “This meeting has enabled children to exercise one of their fundamental rights — the right to participation. It provided them with a valuable platform to courageously raise critical issues related to education, school infrastructure, and violations of child rights, underscoring the importance of listening to their voices and involving them in decisions that impact their lives.”

Mr. Badal Raj, District Superintendent of Education, Ranchi, was also present on the occasion. He appreciated the work and contributions of child reporters in raising awareness about child rights and promoting a child-friendly environment in society. He said, “We have undertaken several steps and initiatives to transform the learning experience of children in government schools, and I believe these child reporters will play a significant role in inspiring and supporting this transformation in their schools and communities.”

After the interaction, the children were taken on a guided tour of the Collectorate, where they gained insights into how various government departments’ function and how the administration works to ensure service delivery and governance for citizens, including children.

This interactive platform not only gave children a chance to be heard at the highest district level in in Ranchi, but also helped bridge the gap between governance and the voices of the young change makers.