Minister of Social Affairs and Labour and Minister of State for Planning and Development Hind Al-Sabeeh Monday opened the Third Children Festival, which runs until November 13, in the International Exhibitions Grounds at Musharaf.
Minister Al-Sabeeh expressed her happiness for holding such event, which strengthens cooperation among governmental bodies, the private sector, volunteering institutions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
In her remarks to reporters during an inspection tour OF the festival, she said that the event aims at underlining the importance of childhood and how to deal with children.
"The festival also focuses on developing the capabilities of children and raising awareness in the society toward their needs to build their characters," she added.
The minister said a law on volunteering is completed and it would be referred to the cabinet for final approval.
She added that the law aims at protecting and organizing the volunteering groups which have no entities, commending the activities of these groups which provide support to the society in different fields.
Abdulmohsen Al-Sanea, who represents the organizing institution in cooperation with others, said that the festival seeks to convey a message and to achieve educational objectives to the society's members, including children. "The event is held for the third year in a row. It means that it is successful," he said, indicating that there are several proceedings and activities used as cultural and religious forums and well as campaigns of awareness.
There are campaigns for blood donation, first aid, good nutrition as well as competitions and workshops.
Several companies interested in children, some ministries and NGOs are participating in the festival.