It was early morning of the first Saturday of the year and a lively crowd had gathered at the entrance of the Unicef office on Phra Athit Road. Young and eager attendees had arrived early for Unicef Thailand's first Open House.
The Open House aimed to commemorate National Children's Day and inspire children and young people from across the country to gain a deeper understanding of child rights. The event, a first in 75 years, aimed to open doors, especially for the younger generation, and provide them an up-close look at Unicef's missions through diverse activities. The gathering evolved into a day where young participants expressed their concerns regarding challenges faced by children and hopes for a more inclusive society.
The day began with an exclusive walking tour of the centuries-old office and exploration of Unicef's 75-year mission through the exhibition "Our Story, For Every Child", followed by a game. The afternoon featured Q&A sessions with Unicef officers called "Talkable Books", and closed with a talk by renowned YouTuber and influencer Raziqaa Paneewong or Softpomz.
"The morning session was educational," said Phawat Wannasri, a 16-year-old high school student who left his house in Sing Buri province at 4am to attend the Open House that morning. He enjoyed the "Children's Rights Game: Life And Rights Journey" activity as it helped him gain insights of child rights at different ages up to 20.
The exhibition walkthrough and the "Talkable Books" segment were equally popular and provided participants an opportunity to ask questions. The attendees exhibited remarkable enthusiasm, arriving well-prepared with thoughtful questions. Some sought insights into the challenges of advocacy. The engaged and inquisitive nature of the participants added a dynamic and thought-provoking energy to the event.
Phawat described the Open House as "eye-opening", emphasising its impact on his awareness and knowledge. Despite dreaming of working for a United Nations agency, he had never been given an opportunity to participate in such initiatives.
Participants enjoyed a special session by YouTuber Raziqaa Paneewong.
Phawat was chosen as one of the 40 participants from 66 applicants. The selection criteria included being between the ages of 15 to 20 and possessing the motivation to attend. Some had experience working with Unicef, while others were eager to learn about the organisation for the first time. What united them was a foundational understanding of child rights. Through their applications, they expressed a shared desire to educate themselves further and deepen their knowledge in this area.
Nathanicha Kanthapichart, a 20-year-old political science student from Bangkok, gained new perspectives from officers during the "Talkable Books" segment.
"I used to perceive the education subsidy for the disadvantaged as nothing more than a quick fix. However, engaging in a conversation about social policy has broadened my perspective. I now understand that the subsidy serves as a long-term social investment, enabling those whose parents can't support them financially to access education."
This social investment is what Nurraimee Langket from Satun hopes for her young counterparts in the Southernmost provinces.
"I've witnessed many disadvantaged children in my area whose parents can't afford to enrol them in school like me," said Nurraimee, a 17-year-old high school student who recently discovered Unicef's Young People Advisory Board (YPAB). She aspires to become a YPAB member to be a voice for them.
Waris Waewwanjuea, an 18-year-old high school student from Bangkok, observed Rohingya children in his neighbourhood who are born to migrant workers and excluded from formal education despite being of school age.
The day concluded with a canvas-painting session.
Witnessing them play and converse in their native language while not being enrolled in school troubles Waris. Concerned about their future prospects, he said: "I can't imagine how they will grow up in this country or survive in the future if they can't access education. They will not speak the language or acquire any knowledge."
Inspired by a day of learning about child rights, he plans to address the matter with community leaders or local officers to ensure these children receive the education they deserve regardless of nationality.
The day concluded with a canvas-painting session where young participants shared concerns and hopes around issues affecting their lives including education, mental health and climate change. Many wrote wishes for a more equal society where no child is left behind.
Communication officer Nipattra Wilkes said the Open House exceeded expectations.
"These young participants are incredibly passionate and eager to learn to get an advanced understanding of child rights. Their enthusiasm for delving into social problems and actively seeking ways to contribute was beyond what we anticipated," stated Nipattra.
"A day with these young enthusiasts has confirmed that youth participation is crucial for building an inclusive society," said a proud Nipattra when the day ended.
The official close of 'Open House' is commemorated with a group photo.
Phawat Wannasri.
Nathanicha Kanthapichart.
Nurraimee Langket.
Waris Waewwanjuea.
Participants learn about child rights through a game.
