The public has been urged to refrain from engaging children in child labour and instead safeguard their right to education, safety, and a healthy childhood.
Speaking to Adom News during activities marking this year’s World Day Against Child Labour, Peter Antwi of the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment said the commemoration was aimed at raising awareness and educating the public on the harmful effects of child labour.
According to him, children should not be involved in work that prevents them from attending school or enjoying their childhood.
“Children are the future of this nation, and we must ensure they are not denied opportunities through exploitation,” Mr. Antwi stated.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Jobs and Employment under the theme: “Let’s Show Child Labour the Red Card.”
Mr. Antwi called on members of the public to report cases of child labour to the appropriate authorities, stressing that any form of work that overburdens a child or interferes with their education and development is unacceptable.
“Any work that deprives a child of education, proper development, and the opportunity to enjoy childhood is harmful and must not be tolerated,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bismark Quartey of the International Labour Organization (ILO) emphasised the need for collective action to eliminate child labour and protect the future of children.
“If we want to secure the future of our children, then child labour must not be encouraged in any form,” Mr. Quartey noted.
He explained that child labour can rob children of their potential and expose them to health and safety risks that may not be immediately visible but could have long-term consequences.
While acknowledging that some families facing economic challenges may depend on support from their children, he stressed that no child should be forced into hard labour at the expense of their future.
“No child should have to sacrifice their future because of economic hardship. Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential,” he added.
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