This publication contains the working papers from a symposium in which Africans active in the field of child welfare and protection discussed the conditions under which children are raised and the impact that this has on their future labor force participation. While this symposium was limited to the African context, it is hoped that it will mark the commencement of a longer-term research and educational program on issues of special relevance to children everywhere. The four themes considered by the participants at the symposium were: (1) workers of the future: career guidance for children and the problems of child labor; (2) the protection of children from violence, abuse, bodily harm and neglect; (3) the role of nongovernmental organizations in child protection; and (4) measures for the protection and care of children whose parents are employed outside the home. In addition to the six working papers prepared on these themes, the publication also contains the framework paper and the report of the discussions. Recommendations are included. (Author/RM)