Child clubs make a difference in our community

Sanumaya Balami, journalist

Sanumaya Balami is an Executive Member of Bal Chetana Child Club, formed in Phakhel village of Makwanpur district 4 years ago. As a child journalist she was interviewed while participating in a child magazine planning workshop organized by Hatemalo, a Plan partner in Kathmandu.

What have you learned from child club?  "I learnt how to express and write my ideas, how we can make a difference in our community and how child clubs support relationship building."

How do your neighbours’ perceive child rights? "It is very difficult to convince them to change their attitude on children’s issues. They want to control their children by force. They are confused about child rights."

What type of work are your doing in your community? "I share what I learn with my friends and encourage other members to join the Child Club for their personal growth. As an active member I request local organizations to involve children."

People say Child Club involvement is harmful and disrupts study. What do you think? "Studying and Child Clubs are both important for us to add good things in our life. Study gives us theory, while practical things can be learnt from child club. We can learn from each other by regular meetings and sharing knowledge and experience."

What should be done to protect child rights? "Awareness-related programs like street drama and discussions should be organized in our community and with our parents regularly. If parents understand children, they will respect child rights."