A Liberated Child Is A Happy Child: Celebrating 30 years of Freedom.

Written by: (UNICEF CLUB at UJ)

                        Hlalani Mdunge, Mamello Mpiti, Okuhle Cyetiwe, Thandeka-Luhle Ncube, Thandiswa Ngolothi, Thaboeteng Ncube

Freedom Day has been observed in many ways throughout history, but one particularly noteworthy example is in South Africa, where it is observed on the anniversary of the first democratic elections that brought an end to decades of Apartheid. April 27th marked the beginning of a new democratic era in which citizens of all races could cast ballots and influence the course of the nation. It signaled the end of formalized racial discrimination and the start of a path toward equality and reconciliation. In South Africa, Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the hardships faced and, the strides made in establishing democracy and freedom.

Freedom is a sacred and inviolable right that all human beings possess. Human rights are standards that recognize and protect the dignity of all human beings. Children have rights and liberties as much as adults, although children may be more vulnerable, their rights are still important and need to be respected. Freedom to a child is the ability to dream and explore without fear or restriction and, the sense of security that comes with knowing that they have the right to education, health, protection, expression, consciousness, and participation. Freedom for children is about having access to opportunities and resources that allow them to develop to their full potential. Freedom in education means more than just having access to schools; it is about receiving quality education, and being free from discrimination, violence, and exploitation within the school environment.

In post-apartheid South Africa, this freedom is seen taking shape through various educational reforms that aim to dismantle the past effects of inequality and promote educational rights for all children. Freedom in health is ensuring that every child, despite their social or economic background, has access to quality healthcare services. Freedom in protection means that children are safe from all forms of violence, abuse, exploitation, and negligence and about creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can grow and thrive. Freedom in participation is about providing children with opportunities to engage, express their views, and influence decisions that affects them and fostering an environment that encourages their participation. Freedom for children is multifaceted and it is important to have their rights honored and upheld and create a society where children are seen, heard, and valued.

Children’s freedom, specifically in South Africa is a challenge that is prevalent and affects a greater part of the problems our children face. Some of these challenges include child labour and exploitation, poverty, inadequate access to education, discrimination and violence as well as limited access to healthcare. There are approximately six out of ten children that are living in poverty in South Africa which influences all the challenges regarding their freedom. Many children are forced into child labour to be able to provide for themselves and their families and because they are working under circumstances that are not legal, are ultimately exploited. The lack of access to education and inequality in the education system effects the children’s freedom because they are faced with disparities such as poverty, language barriers, and teacher shortages that hinder their rights to an education that promotes their freedom and protects them. Although we celebrate the fight for freedom and remember the work that has been done to create a post-apartheid South Africa, discrimination is still a significant challenge faced by children. Race, gender, disability and socioeconomic circumstances are products of discrimination towards children and create barriers that obstruct children’s freedom. Another consequential matter that affects the freedom of children is violence. Bullying, sexual violence, gang violence and domestic violence are examples of the difficulties that children face relating to their freedom. Having limited access to healthcare such as limited preventive care, delayed treatment and a cycle of poverty contributes to the detriment of children’s freedom.

On a smaller scale, us as a UNICEF club at the University of Johannesburg, are focused on promoting freedom for children through initiatives like the literacy initiative, nutrition initiative and mental health initiatives. Where in literacy we help marginalized children by providing them with the help they need when it comes to their academics, from helping them with their homework to engaging in teaching them as well. We are not only focused on academics, but we also encourage creative thinking from the children under our care. We teach children about the importance of nutrition and nutritious food as a way of informing them of their right to healthy food. Keeping children safe is our number one priority as we do our utmost best to ensure that they don't find themselves in unfavorable situations. With initiatives like Mental health campaigns, we have a goal of ensuring that every child under our care is mentally fit, healthy and aware. Educating them about different types of mental health issues to ensure that others with mental health issues are not treated differently but are shown the same amount of love and respect.

UNICEF as a foundation is pro-children, and this is seen through the protection and response to the abuse of children. Often, there are conversations about the torture and trauma of children especially in places like Gaza, where they are terrorized by Israel. (Click here for more on this). UNICEF is a voice for children, oppressed or not. UNICEF is calling for an immediate, safe and unconditional release of all abducted children, an end to any grave violation against children, including killings and maiming of children. There are programs that UNICEF have in place for helping these children in Gaza. (Click here for more on this).

We recognize that freedom is not just a privilege, but a fundamental human right that every child deserves. Together, we work towards a world where children are free from violence, exploitation, and discrimination, and can grow up with dignity and respect. Through UNICEF's tireless efforts, we support child-friendly policies and laws, address specific challenges facing children, such as child labour, child marriage, and trafficking, and provide resources for families and communities to ensure access to education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. By empowering children to participate in decision-making processes, express their opinions, and advocate for their rights and freedoms; we create a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for them to thrive. On this Freedom Day, we recommit to building a more inclusive, equitable, and just society where every child can reach their full potential and enjoy their childhood without fear of violence, exploitation, or discrimination. With UNICEF, we can create a world where children can grow up feeling heard, seen, and valued, and where freedom is a reality for all.

We also acknowledge the ongoing struggles of children around the world who are still denied their basic rights and freedoms. We recognize the critical role that UNICEF plays in addressing these challenges, from providing emergency aid to children affected by conflict and natural disasters, to supporting long-term development programs that promote education, healthcare, and social protection. By supporting UNICEF's work, we can help ensure that every child has access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive, and that freedom is a reality for all children, no matter where they are born or grow up.

As we celebrate Freedom Day, let us reflect not only on the significance of the freedom we enjoy but also on the millions of people worldwide who continue to strive for their basic human rights. The journey towards universal liberation requires collective commitment. Our remains dedicated to advocating for the rights of every child, ensuring they have the freedom to thrive, learn and dream without limitations. As a UNICEF campus club we will always celebrate 27 April because of the significance, we encourage everyone to work towards a world where the right to freedom is not just celebrated on one day but upheld every day because, true freedom knows no boundaries and recognizes the inherent dignity of every individual, regardless of circumstances. “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of other.” -Nelson Mandela.

.