Day for Change supporters … Ian Carroll, Carmel Tebbutt, Cain Taylor, Newtown High School of the Performing Arts singer Lauren Azar and Angelo Gavrielatos.

Change for children the goal for UNICEF fundraiser

By Kerri Carr

All public schools are asked to participate in UNICEF Day for Change on Universal Children's Day, October 25.

Federation Deputy President Angelo Gavrielatos said UNICEF Day for Change represented an unprecedented partnership between UNICEF and public schools, supported by Federation and the Department of Education and Training.

"Activities would range from a special assembly to other fundraising activities aimed at raising money for UNICEF," Mr Gavrielatos said.

"On that day students will be asked to make a gold coin donation toward UNICEF."

"What's exciting about UNICEF Day for Change is not only is it an act of charity, but equally important, it's an act of solidarity," Mr Gavrielatos said.

"Students in public schools on that day will be asked to reflect not only on themselves but also so reflect on the plight of many children in desperate circumstances across the globe and how that could contribute to creating a better world."

The program was launched at Annual Conference on July 4.

Speaking at the launch, UNICEF Australia President Ian Carroll said UNICEF Day for Change was an opportunity to bring to the attention of the public school children of NSW the plight of children in the developing world and of their right to a better life.

He said fundraising from the event would support many UNICEF projects and change the lives of millions of children.

"Together we can and will make a difference for the better," Ms Carroll said.

Education Minister Carmel Tebbutt said: "The UNICEF Day for Change will help create a greater awareness among NSW students of the importance of education and challenges faced by students in more disadvantaged parts of the world."

"No doubt we all want students to grow up appreciating the value of and how to contribute to making the world a better place and public schools provide great opportunities for students to do this," she also said.

State Student Representative Council Working Party member Cain Taylor said UNICEF Day for Change was about "getting students to explore the concept of active citizenship".

"It's also a great opportunity to showcase the values and attitudes that underpin our education system," he said.

"The Day for Change initiative will also help students in our public schools to get involved in an event that connects them with the worthwhile work of UNICEF. I think it's important that students become more aware of global issues, engage with issues relevant to them and by doing this empowers them to make a real difference in their communities."

Kick a goal for a carefree childhood

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