A delegation from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa visited the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau Punjab to study institutional arrangements and operational practices aimed at improving child protection across provinces. The visit, hosted by the Peace & Justice Network and conducted under the AawazII programme, focused on strengthening interprovincial coordination, collaboration and cross-learning between Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Officials from CPWB Punjab outlined the bureau’s mandate to rescue, rehabilitate and reintegrate children affected by abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment. Delegates observed how 24/7 rescue operations are coordinated with temporary shelter facilities and a comprehensive rehabilitation model that includes education, vocational training and psychological support tailored to children’s needs.
The delegation exchanged experiences from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and discussed practical approaches to scaling services and improving case management. Participants highlighted the importance of consistent protocols and shared training to ensure that frontline responders across provinces can deliver timely protection services.
Delegates commended the leadership of Chairperson Sarah Ahmad (T.I.) for her role in formulating and securing approval of Pakistan’s first-ever Child Protection Policy, a milestone that strengthens the legislative and institutional framework for safeguarding children. The exchange underlined how policy development and on-the-ground service delivery must work together to improve outcomes for vulnerable children.
The exposure visit formed part of the British Council Pakistan–managed AawazII programme, funded by the British High Commission and FCDO, and implemented provincially by PJN Pakistan with OAKDF. By reinforcing provincial linkages and practical cooperation, the programme aims to advance Child Protection systems and promote the rights of children, women, youth and marginalized groups in both provinces.
