In a significant step towards ensuring child safety and preventing sexual violence, Tamil Nadu’s School Education Minister, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, on Tuesday unveiled a manual for teachers at a CBSE school in Chennai. The manual aims to educate and empower teachers to create awareness and implement measures to prevent sexual harassment of children.Addressing the audience during the release, the minister emphasized the role of teachers in raising awareness among students. He stated that teachers are expected to educate students on the importance of safety and share crucial helpline numbers by November 29. These include:
181: Women Helpline
14417: Education Department Helpline
1098: Child Helpline
Students will also participate in activities designed to foster awareness and vigilance against harassment.
The manual outlines regulations to ensure child safety, including:
Adherence to the Tamil Nadu Private Schools (Regulation) Act, 2018 and Rules, 2023, which mandate quality education, basic facilities, and child safety in private schools.
Formation of Safety Committees
In response to recent incidents of sexual harassment involving schoolgirls in Krishnagiri and Thoothukudi districts, the education department has announced the establishment of Students’ Safety Advisory Committees (SSAC) in all schools.
The committees will meet once a month to discuss safety concerns.
Encourage students to report harassment, bullying, and other issues directly to government agencies.
Facilitate prompt action against perpetrators, including students, if complaints are received.