Masud Rana, Barishal

An awareness rally and discussion meeting were held in the Kashipur Union of Barishal Sadar Upazila to mark the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons.

The initiative aimed to raise public awareness against human trafficking and safeguard children, adolescents, and local residents from potential exploitation.

On Thursday morning, students took part in an awareness march that began from the Naba Adarsha Secondary School premises. Participants displayed placards and raised slogans highlighting messages on human trafficking prevention, safe migration, online scams, and child protection. Following the rally, a discussion meeting was held on the school grounds.

Speaking as the chief guest, the President of the Adarsha Social Protection Committee and Headmaster of Naba Adarsha Secondary School said, "Human trafficking is a grave social crime. To build an effective defense against it, families, educational institutions, and community organizations must work together. It is especially crucial to educate children and young people about various allurements and fraudulent traps."

Speakers at the event noted that traffickers frequently lure victims with false promises of lucrative jobs, high salaries, and overseas employment.

Addressing students and adolescents directly, speakers urged them never to share personal details, photos, or identity documents with strangers. In case of suspicious online job offers, they advised consulting parents, teachers, or trusted individuals, or seeking verification through relevant government channels.

Every year, July 30 is observed globally as the UN World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. The theme for 2026, "Trapped Behind the Scam," highlights the growing risk of people being trafficked and forced into illegal activities through digital fraud and online scams.

The event was jointly organized by the Naba Adarsha Adolescent Club and the Adar

sha Social Protection Committee, with support from World Concern Bangladesh's Empowering Communities for Children’s Rights (ECCR) project. Local union representatives, teachers, students, and community leaders were present at the program.