UNICEF Country Representative and First Lady discuss mental well-being of children
17 ސެޕްޓެމްބަރު 2019 | އަންގާރަ 11:47Discussions were held on three main areas during a courtesy call
The meeting was held at the official resident of the President, Mulee’aage on Tuesday
The UNICEF Country Representative to the Maldives, Dr Munir Safieldin and First Lady Fazna Ahmed have discussed addressing the promotion of children’s mental well-being.
Discussions were held on three main areas during a courtesy call paid on the First Lady by Dr. Safieldin at the official resident of the President, Mulee’aage on Tuesday.
Some of the factors discussed include promoting children’s well-being, advocating for better conditions for children in detention as well as enhancing living situations for children in state homes.
During the meeting, the pair noted that bullying, peer pressure, stress linked to family quarrels and pressure for academic excellence are some of the factors that have an immense negative impact on the younger communities.
Emphasizing on the need to encourage and educate parents to listen to mental health concerns of their children, the pair shed light on the importance of parents supporting their children who could possibly have mental health issues, and urge them to seek professional help, if required.
Further, Dr. Safieldin proposed to lead engagements with the younger communities, teachers and parents and the overall public to share concerns and raise awareness regarding their mental well-being.
In addition, discussions were also held to address the challenges facing children living in state homes, including initiation of counselors for children to turn to in their time of need.
The First Lady and Dr. Safieldin also discussed ways to expedite the passing of the Juvenile Justice Bill and Child Rights Protection Bill into law, going on to speak about the urgency to improve detention facilities conditions and promoting restorative justice that allows young offenders a second chance in life to focus on juvenile crime prevention and promote post-release care and social reintegration services.
Expressing gratitude for UNICEF’s cooperation, the First Lady expressed interest to engage with the community to promote the rights and well-being of children, across the nation.
