Voices that Lead Change: State-Level Workshop & Launch of Surokhit Shaishav Phase III

From 7th to 9th April 2026, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC), with the support of Caritas Germany and partner NGOs, organised a State-Level Capacity Building Workshop at Seva Kendra, Kolkata. The workshop brought together children from five districts of West Bengal under the Surokshit Shaishav Project, creating a vibrant platform for learning, expression, and collective engagement.

The sessions focused on building awareness on child rights, leadership, and protection issues. Through interactive discussions, group activities, and creative expressions, children explored critical concerns affecting their lives and communities. The workshop encouraged them to think, question, and articulate their perspectives with confidence.

On 10th April 2026, a State-Level Consultation was held at ICCR, Kolkata, where children presented their Children’s Manifesto, reflecting their voices, concerns, and demands. The event also marked the official launch of Phase III of the Surokhit Shaishav Project in the presence of key stakeholders, including Smt. Tulika Das, Chairperson, WBCPCR; Smt. Ananya Chakraborty, Advisor, WBCPCR; representatives from Caritas Germany; Directors, Project Coordinators, Child Protection Officers, Child Protection Workers, child and youth leaders, of Partner NGOs and other government stakeholders.

The consultation was enriched by powerful theme-based performances by children, highlighting issues such as child rights violations, protection gaps, and the need for stronger systems of support. Their voices resonated with clarity and conviction, reinforcing the importance of listening to children as active agents of change.

The programme reflected a strong commitment towards child participation and collaborative action, paving the way for a more responsive and inclusive child protection framework in the coming phase.

“When children raise their voices, systems must listen—because change begins with them.”

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