Peshawar, Oct 22, 2025 (APP): The creative voices of street children came to life through colors and canvases at the University of Peshawar on the International Day of Artists.
Held at PUTA Hall as part of the university’s 75th Anniversary Celebrations, the art exhibition showcased the children’s expressions of hope, struggle, and resilience, demonstrating the power of art as a tool for awareness and inclusion.
The event was jointly organized by the Department of Social Welfare (Merged Districts) and the Department of Art & Design, University of Peshawar, with support from UNICEF. The initiative provided a platform for street children to share their experiences through art, while drawing attention to the challenges they face in daily life.
Chief guest Tayaba, former Chairperson of the Department of Fine Arts, inaugurated the exhibition. Representatives from the Department of Social Welfare (Merged Districts), UNICEF, faculty members, and students attended the event, appreciating the efforts to highlight the creative potential of marginalized children.
Through their vibrant paintings and drawings, the children depicted stories of hope and belonging. Organizers emphasized that art not only nurtures creativity but also strengthens psychosocial well-being. Supported by UNICEF, the program engages street children in life skills education, peer support, and mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), promoting resilience through artistic expression.
Special acknowledgment was given to Ms. Qurat Ain and Ms. Faiza Tauqeer, Chairperson of the Department of Art & Design, for their role in curating the exhibition and providing a platform for young artists. The departments reaffirmed their commitment to future collaborations on art-based initiatives for children’s development and inclusion.
The event concluded with a souvenir presentation to the Department of Social Welfare team in recognition of their efforts to engage and empower street children through creative programs. The exhibition stood as a moving reminder that art can inspire healing, empathy, and change.