Experts discuss brighter future for children

Experts discuss brighter future for children

Cultures of childhood in contemporary South Asia took center stage at Jamia Hamdard in December, where experts, professors, and students gathered to deliberate on the issue, writes Haya Asif.

The Centre for Media and Mass Communication Studies at Jamia Hamdard organised this two-day seminar in collaboration with the Department of Social Sciences at South Asian University on December 14-15, 2023.

During his presidential address, Professor (Dr) M Afshar Alam explored the impact of socio-economic disparities on South Asian children. His strong emphasis on education as a crucial tool to overcome these challenges resonated deeply, urging participants not to ignore the voices of children.

Professor (Dr) Reshma Nasreen, Director (In-charge) of the Centre for Media and Mass Communication Studies, a driving force behind the event, shed light on the crucial role of parenthood in shaping children’s experiences.
Professor Nasreen stressed the need for a balanced approach to child-rearing, recognising the sense of responsibility instilled in South Asian children while cautioning against extreme allegiance.

Professor Farhat Basir Khan highlighted the responsibility of individuals and States to protect children, emphasising the importance of prioritising their rights beyond regional boundaries.

Professor Khan’s joint research presentation with Professor Reshma Nasreen on “Children and Media Ecology in India with a Media Perspective” showcased their dedication to advancing knowledge on the subject.

As a plenary speaker, Professor Khan said: “Children must be given priority regardless of any regions”, underlining the significance of initiating a dialogue on childhood.

Guest speakers, including CEO of CRY Puja Marwaha and Sudarshan Suchi, CEO of Balraksha Bharat, Save the Children India, further discussed challenges and opportunities in ensuring a brighter future for children.

The collaboration between Jamia Hamdard and South Asian University garnered support from various organizations, including Child Right & You (CRY), New Delhi, North India Regional ICSSR, New Delhi, Bal Raksha Bharat, Gurugram, and SIMEC, Dhaka, Bangladesh. The International Conference on “Cultures of Childhood in Contemporary South Asia” emerged as a pivotal platform for thought leaders and organisers.

Research scholars, academicians, social workers, and professionals from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, also took part in the event.

(The author is BJMC 1st year student at Jamia Hamdard)