Empowering Young Voices: A Day of Symbolic Leadership in West Bengal

Riya Sardar, a specially-abled girl from a South 24 Parganas village, served as UNICEF's West Bengal unit chief on World Children's Day, advocating for including children in decision-making. Her symbolic leadership emphasized accessibility and representation, with UNICEF committing to annual youth engagement. Another student led a TV channel initiative, focusing on children's issues.

In a powerful gesture on World Children's Day, Riya Sardar, a specially-abled girl from a village in South 24 Parganas, was appointed symbolic head of UNICEF's West Bengal unit. Her leadership underscored the significance of incorporating youth voices in critical decision-making.

Assuming leadership from UNICEF West Bengal chief Monjur Hossain, Sardar initiated a proposal for UNICEF officials to consult children annually, integrating their insights into developmental planning. This proposal was promptly communicated to UNICEF officials in Kolkata via email.

Sardar's advocacy extended to educational access, leading to infrastructural changes in her school. Concurrently, in Murshidabad, Soumiki Chakraborty, a peer, assumed editorial control of a local TV channel, emphasizing child-centric news. UNICEF officials pledged to sustain Sardar's strategy by fostering ongoing youth involvement.

(With inputs from agencies.)