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ISLAMABAD, Nov 20 (APP): Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Senator Rubina Khalid Thursday emphasized that the true progress of any society is only possible when the fundamental rights of its children are fully protected.
In her special message on World Children’s Day, she said that today serves as a powerful reminder to renew the national pledge to safeguard the wellbeing and future of every child in Pakistan.
Senator Rubina Khalid stated that every child has an equal right to health, safety, education, learning, and the opportunity to be heard.
She highlighted that ensuring these rights remains central to BISP’s mission of providing education, health, and equal opportunities to all children from deserving families.
The Chairperson revealed that under the BISP Taleemi Wazaif Programme, more than 18.7 million children have been enrolled in schools, supported by an investment of over Rs. 216 billion to promote quality education.
She added that the outstanding achievement of 503 students securing A+ grades and top positions in matric examinations reflects the programme’s positive impact on academic performance.
Sharing progress on child health and nutrition, Senator Rubina Khalid said that more than 3.8 million mothers and children are benefiting from nutrition, health, and awareness services under the Benazir Nashonuma Programme.
Citing a midterm study conducted by Aga Khan University (Institute for Global Health and Development), she noted that the programme has contributed to a 6.4 percent reduction in stunting among children under two years, while stunting among children up to six months of age has decreased by an impressive 20 percent, signaling significantly improved early childhood development outcomes.
“Protecting our children and securing their bright future is our foremost priority,” the Chairperson affirmed. “Investing in children is, in fact, an investment in the nation’s future.”
Senator Rubina Khalid reiterated that violence against children, forced labour, and all forms of exploitation are unacceptable.
She stressed that World Children’s Day reaffirms the commitment to uphold child rights as non-negotiable, adding that BISP will continue its dedicated efforts to ensure education, health, and protection for all children across Pakistan.