Hold the Child commemorated the Day of the African Child 2025 under the theme “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights: Progress Since 2010.” Through inter-school debates in Juba, Wau, and Raga, children were given a platform to speak up about their rights. In Raga, 52 children called for free education, trained teachers, and banning harmful practices. In Juba, children emphasized the need for clubs, media involvement, and community support. Meanwhile, in Wau, participants at the juvenile centre spoke candidly about abuse, neglect, and detention. Judges praised students’ passion, while children expressed joy at being heard.
Hold the Child remains committed to scaling up child participation platforms, ensuring that children’s voices are not only heard but shape the future of South Sudan.