Hassem, an adolescent living in Camp 17, Banglasdesh, has called the camp home since 2017. Despite the many challenges of displacement, he remained determined to continue his education and attended the Learning Center regularly. Like many children in the camp, he spent his free time studying, playing with friends, and dreaming of a brighter future. The Learning Center became more than a place of education—it was a safe space where he developed friendships, confidence, and hope.
However, life in the refugee camp is marked by poverty and uncertainty. Many families struggle to meet their basic needs, and child labor has become a common negative mechanism. Under financial pressure, some parents believe that sending their children to work is the only way to support the household, often at the cost of their education and wellbeing. These decisions expose children to exploitation, deprive them of their right to learn, and limit their opportunities for a better future.
Hassems’ journey toward becoming a child protection advocate began when Hassems became a participant in the Life Skills Programme under the Joining Forces for Food Security and Child Protection in Emergencies (JF-FS & CPiE) project, implemented by Bangladesh Institute of Theatre Arts (BITA), funded by the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) and supported by Plan International Bangladesh (PIB). Through regular Life Skills sessions, Hassems learned about child rights, child protection, the harmful consequences of child labor, communication and negotiation skills, leadership, positive decision-making, and community responsibility. More importantly, the sessions helped him understand that every child has a role in protecting other children and creating positive change within their community.
One day, Hassam noticed that one of his closest friends had suddenly stopped attending the Learning Center. The friend who used to study, play, and spend time with him had disappeared from their daily routine. Worried about his friend’s wellbeing, Hassems decided to visit his home to understand what had happened.
When Hassems visited his friend’s family, he learned that the boy had been forced to leave the Learning Center after repeated pressure from his father, who believed that earning money was more important than education. The child had started working long hours at a local tea stall instead of attending classes. Drawing on the confidence and communication skills he had developed through the Life Skills sessions, Hassems did not remain silent. He met with his friend’s father several times, patiently explaining the harmful effects of child labor, the importance of education, and every child’s right to grow up in a safe and protective environment. Rather than criticizing or blaming him, Hassems spoke respectfully and encouraged him to think about his son’s future. Gradually, these conversations changed the father’s perspective. Realizing the long-term consequences of his decision, he agreed to withdraw his son from work and support his return to education.
Today, Hassems’ friend has successfully returned to the Learning Center, where he has resumed his education and reconnected with his classmates. Reflecting on his experience, Hassems said, “The Life Skills sessions taught me that protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. I couldn’t ignore my friend’s situation. I’m happy that he is back in the Learning Center and can continue his dream.”
The positive impact extended beyond one child. Hassems’ actions helped change a father’s perception of child labor and demonstrated that education offers a stronger path toward a better future. Sharing his reflection, the boy’s father said, “Stopping my son’s education and forcing him to work was my biggest mistake. After talking with Hassems, I realized how harmful child labor is. I am grateful that my son is studying again.”
The child who returned to school also expressed his gratitude, saying, “The days I worked instead of studying were the hardest days of my life. Thanks to Hassems, I am back in the Learning Center and with my friends again.”
Hassems’ story is a powerful example of how empowering adolescents with knowledge, leadership skills, and confidence can create lasting change within their communities. His courage to speak up protected a fellow child from labor, restored a child’s right to education, and inspired others to take responsibility for safeguarding children. It demonstrates that when adolescents are equipped with the right skills and support, they can become influential child protection advocates and catalysts for positive change, helping build safer and more protective communities for every child.