GISAGARA - Students from Byiza, Muganza and Cyumba primary schools in Muganza Sector, Gisagara District, have been urged to stand up against abuse of their rights.

Speaking during a sensitization campaign in Muganza on Wednesday, officials from the ActionAid, a local Nongovernmental Organisation, said the role of children is critical in the fight against child abuse.

Judith Murara Murekeyisoni, in-charge of women and children affairs, decried the abuse of children’s rights which she said has dire consequences on their lives.

"The research we conducted has revealed that some children are mistreated and exploited by members of society while others are deprived of their rights to education,” she said.

"Children should stand and defend their rights. It is their responsibility and obligation to do so”.

Pupils who attended the campaign said there is an improvement in the respect of their rights, although they noted that the fight is far from over.

"Parents should also be sensitized about our rights…some of us still miss classes while others are involved in hard labour,” said Patrick Nduwayo, a P.5 student at Muganza Primary School.

The one-week child rights advocacy campaign organised by ActionAid was meant to raise awareness.

During the same campaign, ActionAid awarded scholastic materials to 36 best performing pupils from the three schools for their hard work in last term’s exams.

The schools also received an assortment of sports equipment to promote entertainment and sports in schools.

"Sport helps young students relax,’ Murara said, adding that it is among the basic children’s rights.

Ends