Children’s parliament election, first session held in Wokha

DIMAPUR — The children’s parliament initiative, under the aegis of the Development Association of Nagaland (DAN), held the district children’s parliament election and the first general session in Wokha on October 18.

According to a press release, the event was preceded by a consultative workshop with district stakeholders, with Furhesie Nyuwi, ADC Wokha, as the keynote speaker.

Farhusie Nyuwi stated in his keynote address that children’s parliaments are promoted around the world to provide opportunities for children to learn about democracy and become responsible citizens, and he urged the participants to participate, use the platform to build self-confidence, and be good leaders in their schools and communities.

Rev. Fr. Sajan Joseph, director of DAN, highlighted in his address the objectives and strategies of the children’s parliament initiative promoted by DAN, while Tsophe Khutsoh, a psychologist with the National Tobacco Control Programme, shared her thoughts on strategies for engaging children in tobacco control among children and adults.

Sangthing Khiam, sub-divisional police officer, shared information with the children during his input session about the various aspects of cybercrime that affect people in the state and elsewhere. He emphasised the importance of children being vigilant in order to avoid various forms of cybercrime.

Lireni Tungoe, psychiatric nurse, District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), Wokha, shared her thoughts on the current challenges in mental health among youth and adolescents. She emphasised the importance of young people coming forward and seeking help in times of need.

The election for the district children’s parliament was held via ballot, in which Erenbemo Z Ezung of Government Higher Secondary School, Wokha, was elected prime minister alongside a council of ministers with various portfolios.

Following the election, the district parliament held its first general session, during which school and neighbourhood parliaments presented their activity reports.

The workshop and election were attended by 52 participants from seven institutional children’s parliaments and four neighbourhood children’s parliaments.

Also read: Nagaland observes ‘IDD Prevention Day’