Every Child Must Be in School, Not at Work: Minister Dr. G. Vivek Venkatswamy
Society Must Join Hands to Eradicate Child Labour
Hyderabad, June 15: Labour, Employment and Training Minister Dr. G. Vivek Venkatswamy reiterated the State Government’s commitment to ensuring that “every child is in school, not at work.” Addressing a programme organized on the occasion of World Day Against Child Labour 2026, he called for transforming the fight against child labour into a social movement involving all sections of society.
The Minister was the chief guest at the World Day Against Child Labour 2026 programme held at Sundarayya Vignana Kendram in Bagh Lingampally, Hyderabad.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Vivek Venkatswamy said that poverty and adverse family economic conditions continue to force many children into labour. He said that identifying such children and bringing them back into the education system can help secure their future. Protecting childhood and ensuring access to quality education, he said, is a collective responsibility.
Recalling the ideals of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Minister said education is the most powerful tool for achieving social and economic progress. He noted that many individuals who were once child labourers have gone on to secure respectable jobs, demonstrating the transformative power of education.
The Minister stressed that awareness is crucial in the fight against child labour and called for extensive campaigns, particularly through social media, to educate the public on the issue. He said the complete eradication of child labour would be possible only through coordinated efforts by the government, voluntary organizations, social activists and citizens.
Highlighting the State Government’s initiatives for youth development, Dr. Vivek Venkatswamy said Advanced Technology Centres (ATCs), skill development programmes and language training centres aligned with overseas employment opportunities are being established across Telangana. He added that children who complete their education and acquire relevant skills will have access to better employment prospects in the future.
The Minister also commended social activists and representatives of voluntary organizations working tirelessly to protect child rights and rehabilitate child labourers through education. He described their efforts as exemplary and invaluable to society.
Dr. Vivek Venkatswamy urged everyone to play an active role in building a child labour-free society and ensuring that every child is provided with education, protection and the opportunity for a brighter future.
