The pandemic-enforced closure of schools for a longer period of time across India has become a cause of worry for the United Nations Children’s Fund, or UNCEF.

According to the global body, children are losing a lot more than just education, but a lot of other things, too. It is worried over the fact that children are losing time with their teachers and friends to nutritious school meals and in some cases, a safe haven that prevents abuse and violence.

The UNICEF has called for safe reopening of schools and learning recovery on World Children's Day 2021

This year’s WCD theme focuses on helping children to recover from interruptions and learning losses experienced over the last two years due to the pandemic. The UNICEF India along with its partners have planned a number of events between November 14 and November 20. Both the virtual and physical spaces will be used to bring light to this issue.

UNICEF is partnering with Google India, Oracle India, Kimberly-Clark India, Ibis, Housing.com, B-Medical systems, INIO Media network to serve the purpose. These organisations will lend their platforms for children and highlight WCD theme for the year 2021.

World Children's Day 2021 UNICEF Events

November 14-20: Pandemic classroom installation

A pandemic classroom will be installed at Open Amphitheatre, Select City Walk Mall, Saket. It will highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children’s education, learning and well-being.

November 18: Launch of Changing Childhood Project Report

UNICEF will release findings of The Changing Childhood Project, a landmark poll by UNICEF and Gallup that asked multiple generations for their views on the world and what it is like to be a child today.

November 19-20: Iconic buildings and historic monuments to #GoBlue

Monuments across the country including Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House and Qutub Minar will be adorned with blue lights highlighting the nation-wide celebration of child rights and to put the spotlight on Learning Recovery.

November 20: Charter of Demands presented to Parliamentarians on prioritising children’s education and their recovery

UNICEF India has also roped in Parliamentarians’ Group for Children (PGC) as partner to organise a Parliament with Children on November 20. The event will be held in the presence of members of Parliament. According to the UNICEF, the PGC convenes, informs and engages Members of Parliament on issues of children's rights. Children will present their demands to re-open schools at the event.