One-size-fit Programme for Children's Rights?

Recently I came accross an article on All Africa news talking about the Convention of the Rights of Children http://allafrica.com/c/-4T7Bb #zimbabwe via @allafrica . It reminded me and my colleagues at CHBC-SLA how at times we tend to ignore our government's commitment to this very important law, and wonder why children are not knowledgeble on their own rights. At CHBC-SLA the story is different. We feel that by working through parents Teachers Associations, and getting them engaged in the affairs of not only the schools, but of the wellbeing of children, we came make a difference. Just recently we had a meeting with one local PTA in a small peri-uban community school where the PTA members have promised to "act and see change in the lives of children's rights". We asked them a few questions on what they know about "Children's Rights" and here are some of the responses: CHBC-SLA: As part of your school curriculum, do you encourage your school to teach children's rights? PTA: Yes, rights begin from home and therefore we expect children to recieve their rights even when in school. That is why in most cases, the schools do not offer any user fees but only ask children and their familes to contribute whatever they have to keep the school going. CHBC-SLA: From a scale of one- five, with five being very good, how do you rate your staff's knowledge at school when it comes to Children's Rights? PTA: Five- We are confident on this becuase we have not had any serious children's rights violations so far at our school compared to other schools CHBC-SLA: What in your opinion is an appropriate programme to enahance children's rights in community schools? PTA: There is no one-size-fits-all type of programme when it comes to promoting children's rights in school. What is critical is that the school needs to embrace children's rights as part of their bigger strateg in providing education to every child. By Theresa Bwalya Director of Recreation and OVC Programme Chindwin Home Based Care- SLA