Some of the most powerful advocates for children’s rights are children themselves.

With this belief, ILP’s NGO partner SNEHA has formed Child Rights Associations comprising 20 children in every upper primary and high school across Ilkal Taluk, Karnataka. Guided by teachers and facilitators, these young leaders learn about child rights, child protection laws, their responsibilities, and how to create a safer, more inclusive environment for every child.

But this initiative goes far beyond awareness.

Members of the Child Rights Associations organize discussions, awareness campaigns, competitions, rallies, and meetings to address issues affecting children such as inadequate toilets and classrooms to the need for playgrounds and sports equipment and write to the Gram Panchayat and concerned government departments.

By giving children a voice, these associations have helped bring about meaningful improvements in many schools.

While the associations are led by children with guidance from teachers, parents play an equally important supporting role by participating in awareness programmes, working with schools to address child-related issues, and helping create a safe and nurturing environment at home and in the community.

The associations also play a vital role in protecting vulnerable children. Members are trained to identify issues such as child labour, child marriage, bullying, and discrimination, and know how to seek help through child protection helplines like 1098 and 112. Their timely intervention has helped safeguard children and support their return to school.

Along the way, these young changemakers develop confidence, leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while discovering that their voices can create real change.

When children understand their rights, they don’t just transform their own future, they become champions for the rights of others. That’s the true power of a Child Rights Association.

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