SWABI: The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa inaugurated a Child Protection Unit (CPU) in Swabi, a significant step toward enhancing child safety and strengthening the province’s protection system for vulnerable children.
The inauguration ceremony was opened by Shakeel Ahmad, Additional Deputy Commissioner Swabi, who welcomed guests and reaffirmed the district administration’s commitment to safeguarding children’s rights.
He highlighted that the CPU will serve as a central hub for case management, referrals, and coordination with education, health, police, and social welfare departments.
UNICEF officials lauded the initiative. Mr. Radoslaw Rzehak, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Peshawar, commended the KP government and Swabi’s leadership in operationalizing the CPU, emphasizing UNICEF’s continued partnership to strengthen protection services and community engagement.
Sohail Ahmad, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF Peshawar, stressed the importance of integrated referral mechanisms, noting that abuse and neglect are often identified in schools, health facilities, and police stations. He urged the public to utilize the 1121 Child Protection Helpline for timely assistance.
Jennifer Melton, Chief of Child Protection, UNICEF Pakistan, praised KP’s vision and leadership, highlighting the Child Protection and Welfare Act 2010 and the province’s efforts to expand CPUs.
She emphasized early prevention, strong community structures, and coordination among schools, health facilities, and law enforcement.
Mr. Ijaz Muhammad Khan, Chief Protection Officer at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Child Protection & Welfare Commission, acknowledged Swabi’s pioneering role since 2022 in addressing abuse, neglect, and exploitation, calling for enhanced inter-departmental collaboration.
Syed Qasim Ali Shah, Minister for Social Welfare, Special Education & Women Empowerment, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to an integrated approach where education, health, police, and social welfare work together to protect every child.
He emphasized that expanding CPUs and strengthening referral pathways like the 1121 Helpline will ensure that no child remains unseen or unsupported, while thanking UNICEF and partner organizations for their ongoing support.
