Sri Vijaya Puram, October 23: An awareness programme on “Child Rights and Responsibilities” was conducted at Government Middle School, Dugnabad, Sri Vijaya Puram, with the participation of approximately 50 students. The programme focused on creating awareness among children about their fundamental rights, personal safety, responsibilities and the importance of protecting themselves from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Students were also encouraged to understand the importance of education, equality, dignity and respectful behaviour, recognise unsafe situations and seek help from trusted adults whenever necessary.
The Directorate of Social Welfare, Andaman and Nicobar Administration, emphasises the importance of promoting child rights awareness and strengthening child protection through school- and community-based initiatives. Such programmes aim to empower children with knowledge of their rights, help them recognise unsafe situations and encourage them to seek assistance without fear. The initiative also reinforces the collective responsibility of families, educational institutions and communities in ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of every child.
Ms. Surila, GTT (Sc.), Government Middle School, Dugnabad, stated that the awareness programme would be highly beneficial for the participating students. She expressed the need for organising similar programmes for the remaining students of the school at the earliest, so that they too could gain awareness and understanding of child rights and responsibilities.
During the awareness session, Ms. Rehaneth Begum, Programme Manager, State Child Protection Society (SCPS), explained children’s rights to education, health, equality, dignity, development and protection. Students were informed about child abuse, bullying, child labour and child marriage, including the importance of recognising unsafe situations, refusing inappropriate behaviour and immediately sharing concerns with trusted adults. The session also highlighted that children should not remain silent out of fear, shame or threats and that seeking help is an important step towards ensuring their safety.
The importance of Child Helpline 1098 was also explained as a means of seeking assistance for children in need of care and protection.
Awareness message: Every child deserves a safe childhood, equal opportunities and protection from abuse, neglect and exploitation. Parents, teachers and community members must listen to children, take their concerns seriously and act promptly when a child may be at risk. Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility, a press release from the Programme Manager, SCPS, Directorate of Social Welfare, said.
