Millions of children around the world are missing school today — not because they want to, but because they have to work.
Millions of children around the world are missing school today — not because they want to, but because they have to work.
Every year on 12 June, the world observes the World Day Against Child Labour. This special day was created by the International Labour Organisation, known as the ILO, to draw attention to the millions of children who are forced to work instead of going to school. According to the ILO, around 160 million children worldwide are involved in child labour. These children miss out on education, play, and the chance to dream about their future. Instead, they carry heavy burdens — sometimes literally — working in farms, factories, mines, and markets just to help their families survive.
Child labour is not the same as a teenager doing simple chores at home or earning pocket money on weekends. Child labour means work that is harmful, exploitative, or that stops a child from attending school and enjoying their childhood. It robs children of their right to learn, rest, and be safe. Some children work in dangerous conditions without proper food, rest, or protection. The ILO and the United Nations believe that every child, no matter where they are born, has the right to education, safety, love, and play. In Singapore, laws protect children from exploitation, and education is compulsory for all children of school age, which means every child must go to school.
Singapore takes children's rights very seriously. The Children and Young Persons Act protects young people from harm and exploitation. Singapore also supports global efforts to end child labour by working with international organisations. In our everyday lives, we can also play a part. When we buy products, we can look for fair-trade labels, which signal that the items were made without exploiting workers, including children. Learning about issues like child labour helps us become more thoughtful, caring global citizens — something Singapore's education system strongly encourages.
You might wonder what you, as a student, can do. The most powerful thing you can do right now is value your own education. Every time you sit in a classroom, open a textbook, or ask a question, you are enjoying a right that millions of children are denied. You can also raise awareness by talking to friends and family, participating in school activities that support children's rights, and being kind and inclusive to everyone around you. Education is the greatest gift, and together we can stand up for a world where every child gets to learn, grow, play, and shine. At iGlobal Educational Services, we believe that shaping your future starts with protecting your right to learn today.
