On Wednesday the 20th of November, the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People held an event celebrating the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). The event took place at W5 hosted, and more than 2,000 people throughout the day were in attendance, including Strahearn’s School Council representatives from forms 1, 2 and 3 as well as the Chair and Vice Chair. Pupils from all over Northern Ireland took part in several activities to raise awareness of their rights. During the day a summit was held in the W5 lecture theatre. Eight children from NI were chosen to give presentations on an issue affecting the youth of NI and how the incorporation of the UNCRC would help. Each presentation was given in front of a panel of political representatives from the UUP, SDLP, DUP, Sein Fein, Alliance and Green Party. After each presentation the politicians each had one minute to respond. The audience had an opportunity to ask the politicians questions, too. I gave a presentation on the issue of National Identity and how the lack of education on the subject has a negative effect on NI youth. I received a very positive response from the politicians as well as the audience who asked four questions on my topic. Over all it was a very successful day.
