Day Two: Understanding How Parliament Works

On the second day of the EPIC Child Parliament programme, the children took an important step towards preparing for the Child Parliament by learning about how Parliament works and the roles of the people who make up Parliament.

The session introduced the children to the structure of Parliament and the different responsibilities of those involved in parliamentary proceedings. They learnt about the roles of Members of Parliament and other key participants, as well as how parliamentary discussions are conducted.

The children were also taken through parliamentary proceedings, giving them an understanding of how issues are presented, discussed, debated and considered within Parliament. This helped them see that Parliament is not simply a place where people gather to speak, but a space where issues are raised, different perspectives are considered, and decisions are made.

This knowledge was particularly important as the children prepare to take on their own roles during the EPIC Child Parliament. On the day of the Child Parliament, they will have the opportunity to participate in parliamentary proceedings and speak about issues that concern children. They will share their views, engage in discussions and bring attention to matters that affect children in their communities and beyond.

The session therefore went beyond simply teaching the children about Parliament. It equipped them with the knowledge they need to participate confidently and meaningfully when they take their seats in the Child Parliament.

Through EPIC, children are being encouraged not only to understand the systems that shape their lives, but also to recognize that their voices have a place in conversations and decisions that affect them.