A Unified Front Against Early Marriage
To ensure a safer future for the youth of Jhapa, Mahila Janachetana Kendra (MJK) successfully conducted a series of high-level interaction programs with local government representatives. These sessions were part of the ongoing project: “Preventing & Responding to Child Marriage and Early Union.”
By bringing together the decision-makers of Kachankawal, Barhadashi, and Mechinagar, the program focused on evaluating past awareness activities and planning more effective interventions for students, parents, and the wider community in the coming days.
Key Participation & Collaboration
The success of these programs was highlighted by the active participation of key leadership and departmental heads. In Mechinagar, the invitation and coordination involved a comprehensive list of stakeholders, including:
Executive Leadership: The Mayor and Deputy Mayor of the Municipality.
Ward Representation: Ward Chairpersons from all 15 wards.
Administrative & Legal: Chief Administrative Officer and the Head of the Judicial Branch.
Sectoral Experts: Heads of the Health, Education & Sports, and Social Development branches.
Social Safeguards: The Women and Children’s Branch and representatives from the Civil Registration Department.
Objectives of the Interaction
The discussions were centered on three primary pillars:
Review of Progress: Analyzing the impact of previous awareness campaigns on adolescents and their families.
Municipal Ownership: Strengthening the role of the local government in advocating for child rights and enforcing marriage laws.
Future Strategy: Identifying the necessary resources and collaborative steps to make these municipalities “Child Marriage Free” zones.
Moving Forward
As the program concluded in Mechinagar on Baisakh 29, 2083, the consensus among the representatives was clear: child marriage is not just a social issue but a barrier to development. MJK is deeply grateful for the commitment shown by the local leaders to integrate these awareness goals into their municipal planning.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Ward Chairs, and Officers for their participation and support.
