Unicef''s RTE campaign gets two lakh supporters

Mumbai, Jan 13 (PTI) The ''Awaaz Do online campaign'',launched by United Nations Children''s Fund (UNICEF) to bringthe over eight million children currently out of school inIndia, has received over two lakh supporters within threemonths.

"The campaign was launched to mobilize Indian society tospeak up for the more than eight million children currentlyout of school," Angela Walker, Chief of Communication ofUNICEF, said during a video-conference with journalists fromvarious cities.

The landmark passing of the Right of Children to Free andCompulsory Education (RTE) Act 2009 marks a historic momentfor the children of India, she said.

Prominent supporters of the campaign include Union HRDminister Kapil Sibal and actress Priyanka Chopra who is alsoUNICEF''s national ambassador, she said.

The campaign will conclude on January 25 in Delhi at afunction attended by Sibal, she said.

"We are working in with the BMC in Mumbai to reach to thehalf a million children living in slums," Urmila Sarkar,UNICEF''s Chief of Education said.

After being informed that just Rs 88 crore are neededover two years to ensure there are toilets in all schools inthe state, Maharashtra Government has included the proposal inthe work plan for the year 2011, another official said.

The UN body works for children''s rights, their survival,development and protection.