First Lady Fazna Ahmed has appealed to the media to launch public service campaigns to raise awareness on child-related issues that have been on the rise in the country.

Taking the podium as the Chief Guest at RaajjeTV Night held in commemoration of the station’s ninth anniversary on Sunday night, the First Lady pushed the initiation of awareness campaigns on important social issues that have been surging.

Highlighting that media has an important role in raising awareness on child negligence among other issues related to children, Fazna said that media is the fourth pillar of democracy and broadcasters must benefit from this by initiating extensive campaigns on several issues that require public awareness.

Adding that media freedom has grown over the past year, Fazna listed down several such issues including domestic abuse towards children and restrictions they face at home as well as issues with children’s shelters. There are so many things to base reports on, such as questions regarding the capacity of such shelters, how many children they can accommodate, the ratio of staff to children as well as the staff’s capacity and ability to ensure children receive the best care.

She stated that the importance of child rights protection must reach the people, through such campaigns and that it requires thorough organization. Media plays an important role in encouraging positive change through strategic awareness campaigns.

Also at the event, the First Lady praised the remarkable efforts by RaajjeTV during its nine years of service, as well as the commendable attitude the station and its employees carry.

Fazna highlighted that the station’s employees will put their lives at stake to bring news to the public and went on to praise reporter’s humorous nature in reporting. While RaajjeTV has been on the receiving end of harassment for the past couple of years, Fazna said that humorous reporting and presenting has saved the station from the growing stress and impending fear of threats.

While the employees were praised for their significant contribution and exceptional bravery, she urged the journalists to continue working resiliently in the same spirit.

The First Lady also presented an award to Senior Video Editor Ahmed Siraj who won the prestigious “Staff of the Year” title at Sunday's ceremony.