Hanoi ensures a safe and joyful summer for children
In response to the Month of Action for Children from June 1 to 30, Hanoi is launching a wide range of practical activities to promote the comprehensive development of children in terms of physical health, mental well-being, and education.
THE HANOI TIMES — In an interview with Kinh te & Do thi (Economic & Urban) Newspaper, Dinh Hong Phong, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Health, shared his insights on this year's Month of Action theme, as well as the programs and measures being implemented to ensure that Hanoi's children have a meaningful and safe summer.
Could you share more details about Hanoi’s 2025 Month of Action for Children theme?
Hanoi designated the campaign theme as "Prioritize Resources, Achieve Goals for Children" to secure resources to fulfill the set goals in 2025.
Currently, Hanoi has over two million children, including around 14,000 in special circumstances who require the most attention. In addition to care from the political system, organizations and benefactors have supported them through gifts and scholarships.
The Department of Health leaders present gifts to children at the Social Protection Center No. 3. Photos: Kinh te & Do thi Newspaper
What will Hanoi focus on during the 2025 Month of Action for Children?
Alongside the activities planned for International Children’s Day on June 1, local authorities have paid special attention to creating the best possible living conditions for children, helping them to overcome hardships, perform well in school, and participate in community life. Particularly, the city will provide educational programs and leisure activities during the summer.
We have held a drawing contest to give them the opportunity to express their dreams through colorful, innocent artwork and hope these heartfelt expressions reach policymakers and inspire concrete actions to support and protect our children.
Additionally, Hanoi’s leaders visited care centers throughout the city and gave children gifts. Meanwhile, local authorities sent delegations to visit families with children facing challenges, offering encouragement and support to improve their quality of life.
Children participate in a drawing contest to express their dreams through their artwork.
What are local authorities doing to improve recreational facilities to help children engage more in sports and physical activities?
Investment in physical infrastructure, such as playgrounds, libraries, and activity centers, is one key factor in enabling children to enjoy their summer.
The city and local governments have set up libraries, clubs, and public play spaces for children. Organizations such as the Youth Union, the Women's Union, neighborhood groups, and residential areas have invested in equipment and created additional spaces for summer activities. As a result, greater access to play, movement, and opportunities to grow both physically and socially during the holiday season is now available to children across the city.
What does the Department of Health instruct local authorities for preventing child injuries and drowning?
According to reports from districts and towns, there has been an alarming increase in accidents and drowning incidents involving children in some areas.
As the leading agency in child care and protection, the Department of Health has advised the Hanoi People's Committee to issue a directive requiring all agencies and localities to raise awareness, promote community responsibility, and increase protective measures.
This year, drowning prevention efforts extend beyond teaching swimming. We are also teaching children how to avoid dangerous situations and how to respond if a drowning incident occurs, which helps them stay proactive and be able to assist others when needed.
Thank you very much!
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On May 28, Hanoi kicked off the 2025 Month of Action for Children at the Hanoi Children's Palace with the theme: "Prioritize Resources, Achieve Goals for Children." The event welcomed Vu Thu Ha, Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi People's Committee, along with leaders from central and local agencies and 400 young representatives. During the ceremony, the leaders presented 100 scholarships and 290 gift sets to children, totaling $10,950. Four key activities were featured at the event: medical screenings for children with congenital heart defects and motor disorders; the launch of a vitamin A supplementation campaign; a children's drawing session themed “For Our Safety”; and the kickoff of a safe swimming campaign. These activities promote child protection and development and demonstrate Hanoi’s commitment to ensuring a safer, healthier summer for its young citizens. |
