Through “Advika Barta,” a first-of-its-kind statewide conversation platform designed to increase adolescent engagement in governance and policy discussions, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida engaged with teenagers from all over Odisha. As part of the “A Day for Children” campaign, UNICEF and the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights collaborated to organize the event. The function, which was held in honor of Raja Parba, brought together young boys and girls from Advika organizations around the state. Representatives from all 30 districts joined electronically in front of district authorities and administrators, while a number of teenagers participated in person at the Convention Center in Bhubaneswar.
Participants asked questions and discussed their experiences about topics pertaining to education, safety, gender equality, child rights, leadership possibilities, skill development, health, and future goals throughout the two-hour interactive event. Additionally, they offered recommendations for improving the state’s youth services and programs. Speaking to the attendees, the Minister reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to giving teenagers a significant say in issues that impact their lives. She promised young people that their concerns and suggestions will influence future policy talks and urged them to actively participate in leadership and community development initiatives.
Prasanta Dash, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Odisha; Babita Patra, Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights; Sovana Mohanty, Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women; and other officials were present. Wider public engagement was made possible by the program’s internet streaming, which also raised awareness of the problems, goals, and leadership potential of teenagers throughout Odisha.
