Riyadh: Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Albudaiwi affirmed that GCC member states prioritize the well-being of children, considering them a fundamental cornerstone for building societies and shaping the future, according to a press release issued by the GCC General Secretariat today.

According to Saudi Press Agency, in a statement delivered today marking Gulf Children's Day, observed annually on January 15, Albudaiwi highlighted the GCC's deep commitment to family affairs across all demographics. He noted that GCC leaders have previously directed the conduct of studies to mitigate the negative impacts of certain media content on youth.

He pointed to the role of the Advisory Commission of the Supreme Council in developing child culture programs and cited the Supreme Council's approval of the "Muscat Document on Rules for the Protection of Children during the Investigation Phase" in 2023.

Albudaiwi described Gulf Children's Day as a vital platform to raise awareness of children's rights, particularly in health and education. To support this, the GCC Statistical Centre has launched educational booklets presenting Gulf-wide data in a simplified manner, aimed at instilling a sense of belonging and Gulf unity among the younger generation.

Addressing the challenges of increasing digital openness, Albudaiwi outlined the "Digital Safety for the Gulf Child" initiative. Adopted by the GCC Ministers of Information, this program targets children aged 5 to 18. It aims to guide them on safe internet usage, raise awareness about digital risks, and provide training on appropriate responses to potential online dangers.

Emphasizing education, the secretary-general noted that member states provide essential school services free of charge, including high-speed internet, textbooks, educational computers, health facilities, and infrastructure adapted for students with disabilities.

He concluded by announcing that the implementation rate of these essential educational services has reached 100% across all schools in GCC member states.