UCL Academics praise Sarah Ahmad’s efforts to protect children’s rights

Academics at University College London (UCL) have praised Sarah Ahmad, Chairperson of the Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, for her efforts to protect children’s rights in Pakistan.

Invited by UCL, Sarah Ahmad delivered a special lecture in London, representing Pakistan and sharing Punjab’s practical initiatives to safeguard children and promote their welfare.

Addressing an academic audience comprising associate professors and doctoral researchers, she outlined measures to protect children from abuse and exploitation, prevent child marriage and promote a safer digital environment for young people.

The session focused on Pakistan’s child protection policies, the challenges involved in securing their approval and implementation, and the importance of effective policymaking to uphold children’s fundamental rights.

UCL academics expressed keen interest in the work of the Punjab Child Protection and Welfare Bureau and emphasised the importance of translating child protection policies into practical measures that improve children’s lives.

Doctoral researchers also discussed Pakistan’s efforts to prevent child marriage, strengthen online safety and ensure a secure environment for children. The exchange provided an opportunity to explore proposals for improving child protection systems and safeguarding children’s fundamental rights.

Sarah Ahmad also presented proposals concerning vocational training and the empowerment of children, highlighting the importance of helping young people develop the skills and opportunities needed to become active members of society.

Welcoming her visit, UCL academics thanked Sarah Ahmad for sharing the Bureau’s experience and initiatives in Pakistan. An associate professor described her practical efforts and commitment to child protection as inspiring, acknowledging the challenges involved in advancing child protection policies and ensuring their implementation.

The discussions also highlighted the need for sustained institutional commitment, effective policy frameworks and practical interventions to strengthen the protection of children’s rights.

The engagement at UCL provided an opportunity to share Punjab’s experience with an international academic audience and exchange ideas on improving child welfare, preventing exploitation and creating safer environments for children.