Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Minister Professor Dr. Abu Zafar Md. Zahid Hossain today announced that the government has decided to upgrade the Child Development Centre in Tongi, Gazipur, into a national-level institution. This move aims to expand rehabilitation and skills development opportunities for children. The decision follows a significant increase in the number of children receiving services at the centre.
Minister's Vision for Rehabilitation
After visiting the Child Development Centre at College gate in Tongi, Minister Zahid emphasized that the goal is not to keep children confined but to provide them with education, training, and rehabilitation so they can become responsible citizens. He highlighted the importance of equipping children with skills that enable them to support themselves and their families.
Long-Term Rehabilitation and Support
Minister Zahid stressed the importance of long-term rehabilitation. He noted that children leaving the centre will continue to receive medical care and psychological counselling to help prevent them from returning to crime or other harmful activities. This ongoing support is crucial for their successful reintegration into society.
Quality of Services and Broader Challenges
The minister expressed satisfaction with the quality of services at the centre, mentioning that none of the children had complaints about the food provided to them. He also discussed the broader challenges of social rehabilitation, stating that legal enforcement alone cannot bring lasting social change. He pointed out that separate rehabilitation centres for vagrants often see individuals returning to their previous lifestyles, underscoring the need for strong public awareness and social movements to combat issues like drug abuse and violence against women.
Event Attendance
The event was attended by Social Welfare Secretary Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, Director General (Additional Secretary) of the Department of Social Services (DSS) Shah Mohammad Mahbub, and Gazipur Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Md. Nurul Karim Bhuiyan.
