On the morning of November 27, the Center for Rural Development in Central Vietnam (CRD), University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University in collaboration with the Division of Labor, Invalids & Social Affairs and the Youth Union of Tam Kỳ city to organize a communication event on “Child protection” at the People’s Committee of An Sơn ward, Tam Kỳ city, Quảng Nam province.

There were 120 participants including representatives and students of Nguyễn Huệ and Chu Văn An secondary schools in this event.

Students brought to the event impressive paintings, funny but meaningful short stories on the themes of child protection from violence, drowning prevention, climate change, etc. The event became more exciting with funny quizzes with gifts.

With a presentation on the theme of child protection from violence, Vũ Minh Tâm (a student of class 9/4 of Chu Văn An secondary school attracted the participants’ attention by using the word “toxic parents”. According to Minh Tâm, “toxic parents” does not likely mean “cruel parents” but for the parents who only care about their child’s achievements but not their child’s feelings. Toxic parents who insult their children or constantly criticize them when their child does not meet their expectation, cause emotional pain on their child. Tâm shared “I have raised my voice and hopefully, those children in this situation can be helped”.

Lê Nhã Vy, a student in class 9/3 of Nguyễn Huệ secondary school said “I wish to live in a healthy environment. Parents should encourage instead of giving more pressure on their child”

The communication event has contributed to raise awareness for parents and the public about protecting children from physical and emotional violence, the negative impacts of climate change and environmental pollution. Simultaneously, the event created opportunities for children to voice up the critical issues related to themselves.

This activity was organized within the project “Strengthening the capacity of social organizations on child rights governance – Phase II” funded by Save the Children International.