In the context of its National Campaign on the Prevention of Violence Against Children, the Ombudsperson For Children’s Office launched its Child Network, Budi’s Friends, on 5 May 2005 at Le Pavillon, Quatre Bornes. The objectives of this network are:

- To encourage the Participation Rights of the child (liberties of opinion,
   expression,  and association)

- To sensitize young persons on the issue of violence against children

- To discuss the issue of youth violence

- To gather the opinion of youngsters on the best strategies to curb
   violence involving children

- To integrate young persons in the world movement against violence

- To encourage children to work in solidarity with others to ensure that the
   world will be a “world fit for children”

As at 31 October 2005, some 100 children from Private and State Secondary schools, the scouts, the Girl Guides and the Kites Club of the National Children’s Council were enrolled as Budi’s Friends. These children were trained on the issue of violence against children during the workshops organized in June, July and August 2005. They are now expected to sensitize other children on this issue in their neighbourhood, schools, families, clubs and youth organizations.

This network is open to all children aged 11 years to 18 years old. If you want to join us you can write to us, phone us or send us an e-mail giving all your particulars.