Advanced Course on Child Rights-Based Approaches

Introduction

This advanced learning course introduces staff members of (international) development agencies and NGOs to child rights-based approaches. A child rights-based approach is a conceptual framework for the process of human development that is normatively based on international children’s rights standards and operationally directed to promoting, protecting and fulfilling children’s human rights. Essentially, a child rights-based approach integrates the norms, standards and principles of the international human rights system into the plans, policies and processes of programme development for children.

The course is based on a participatory, active learning approach, with an emphasis on critical reflection and peer-to-peer learning. The course instructor will provide individualised feedback where appropriate. Participants will do the required readings, prepare interim and final assignments and participate in group discussions.

Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Participation

Objectives

• Participants will deepen their knowledge about project and programme development from a child rights perspective.
• They will learn how to apply the principles of children’s right to be heard, non-discrimination, and best interests, as well as about accountability to various phases of project planning and implementation.
• The course will focus on practical tools for child rights situation assessment, programme planning, implementation, child rights indicators, and monitoring and evaluation within the child rights-based conceptual framework.

Course Duration

This certificate course involves approximately 10 days.

Who should Attend

The course is intended for staff members of development and children’s rights/social justice organisations, including development NGOs and UN specialised agencies like UNICEF.

Other include:

• Child protection officers
• Social workers and NGO staff
• Government officials and policymakers
• Human rights activists and legal professionals
• Educators and health professionals working with children
• Researchers and advocates for child rights.

Course outline

Module 1: Introduction to Child Rights-Based Approaches (CRBA)

• Understanding the Child Rights-Based Approach (CRBA)
• Key principles of child rights (Non-discrimination, Best Interest of the Child, Survival & Development, Participation)
• International and regional legal frameworks on child rights (UNCRC, ACRWC, SDGs)
• Linkages between child rights and sustainable development

Module 2: Child Rights in Policy and Legal Frameworks

• National laws and policies on child rights
• The role of government and institutions in child protection
• Case studies on policy implementation challenges
• Advocacy for child rights at national and international levels

Module 3: Child Participation and Empowerment

• Understanding child participation in decision-making
• Techniques for fostering meaningful child engagement
• Ethical considerations and safeguarding measures
• Case studies on successful child participation models

Module 4: Child Protection Systems and Safeguarding

• Components of an effective child protection system
• Identifying and responding to child abuse, neglect, and exploitation
• Role of civil society and community structures in child protection
• Developing child safeguarding policies and protocols

Module 5: Education and Child Rights

• The right to education: Access, equity, and quality
• Barriers to education and inclusive learning approaches
• Child-friendly schools and rights-based teaching methods
• Addressing violence and discrimination in educational settings

Module 6: Health, Nutrition, and Well-being of Children

• Child rights and access to healthcare
• Addressing malnutrition and food security for children
• Mental health and psychosocial support for children
• Maternal and child health interventions

Module 7: Child Rights in Humanitarian and Conflict Settings

• Impact of armed conflict and disasters on children
• Legal protections for children in humanitarian crises
• Best practices in child-focused emergency response
• Role of international organizations in child protection during crises

Module 8: Social Protection and Economic Rights of Children

• Understanding child poverty and social protection mechanisms
• Child labor and economic exploitation: Legal responses and interventions
• Role of cash transfer programs in improving child well-being
• Strengthening child-sensitive social protection policies

Module 9: Monitoring, Evaluation, and Accountability in Child Rights Programming

• Tools and frameworks for monitoring child rights
• Data collection and analysis for child rights interventions
• Child-friendly accountability mechanisms
• Reporting mechanisms to international and national bodies

Module 10: Developing Child Rights-Based Programs and Advocacy Strategies

• Designing and implementing child rights-based programs
• Engaging stakeholders in child rights advocacy
• Communicating child rights issues effectively
• Action planning and strategy development for participants’ organizations

General Notes

• The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.
• The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.
• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.
• The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.
• All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
• Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901
• This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.

For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 724592901 or send mail to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org

Payments are due upon registration. Payment should be sent to our Bank account before commencement of training and proof of payment sent to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org