RAJSHAHI: Speakers at a discussion here underscored ensuring equal rights of boys and girls to take the country forward.

They also put importance on holistic approach of all government, non-government organisations and individuals to protect children rights.

The discussion was held at Shaheed AHM Kamaruzzaman Degree College in Rajshahi city on Sunday afternoon.

Bangladesh National Women Lawyers Association (BNWLA) organised the function marking the Child Rights Week-2021.

The theme of the day this year is “Invest for Children, Build Prosperous World (Shishur Jonno Biniyog Kori, Somriddho Bishwo Gori)”. Rajshahi mayor AHM Khairuzzaman Liton addressed the meeting as the chief guest, while Rajshahi divisional unit president of BNWLA Advocate Deel Sitara Chuni was in the chair.

Deputy Commissioner of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Sazid Hossain and principal of the college Prof Abdul Khaleque also spoke.

City mayor Liton said children should be taught positive social values and encouraged to learn good manners at an early age.

He added responsive and sensible social and political initiatives are crucial for protecting rights of children particularly those in the slums and underprivileged ones for transforming them into worthy citizens.

The mayor said the present government under the dynamic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is very much positive towards protecting child rights.

He urged the field-level government and non-government organizations concerned to supplement the government endeavour in this regard.