A delegation from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa visited the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau in Punjab to learn about the province’s model for safeguarding children and to strengthen inter-provincial collaboration. The visit, organised by the Peace & Justice Network, brought officials and practitioners together to exchange practical experience on child protection systems.
The team received a detailed orientation on the Bureau’s mandate, which centres on the rescue, rehabilitation and reintegration of children affected by abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment. Delegates learned how the CPWB carries out 24/7 rescue operations, operates temporary shelters and delivers comprehensive rehabilitation services including education, vocational training and psychological support.
Representatives shared cross-provincial perspectives from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and discussed how elements of Punjab’s operational model might be adapted in their home province. The exchange emphasised improving referral pathways, strengthening case management and ensuring continuity of services for vulnerable children across provincial boundaries.
The delegation acknowledged the leadership of Chairperson Sarah Ahmad (T.I.) for her role in formulating and securing approval of Pakistan’s first Child Protection Policy, a milestone seen as advancing the legal and institutional framework for child rights in the country. Participants noted that clear policy direction supports better coordination between provincial agencies and civil society partners.
The exposure visit was part of the AawazII programme managed by the British Council Pakistan and funded by the British High Commission and FCDO in Pakistan, with provincial implementation led by PJNPakistan and OAKDF. Officials said continued inter-provincial learning under the AawazII initiative will be critical to strengthening child protection systems across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
