Child Protection Policy awareness and street play at KOPARKHAIRANE

📅 September 28, 2015 • 📍 KOPARKHAIRANE

In September, a comprehensive Child Protection Policy (CPP) awareness program was conducted at KOPARKHAIRANE. Sr. Collette Gonsalves provided an awareness talk to the outreach program teachers, focusing on the importance of distinguishing between good and bad touch, remaining alert to children’s behavior in class and during recreation, and outlining the necessary actions and points of contact for reporting. The teachers were very happy with this input session. Sr. Moksha Anthon conducted a similar one-hour CPP session for the Sunday School children and Anmol girls. This session, held through open discussion, raised greater awareness about good and bad behavior, potential perpetrators, and high-risk situations, confirming that children are not unaware of these issues and showing great interest. Additionally, Anmol girls receive regular training in self-defense and protection during their Karate classes. On the occasion of Gandhi Jayanthi, Sr. Collette, the Anmol girls, and the Novices organized a short street play for the children, youth, and people of Rabale village on the CPP. The play impressively depicted the current vulnerable situation of most women and girls, even in their own homes, and stressed the need to be bold to protect themselves and seek freedom from abusive situations. Many suggestions were offered on how to receive help from the police, NGOs, and, most importantly, family. The toll-free child protection number, 1098, was also announced as a resource for timely help in times of crisis. After the play, the local children and the Anmol girls sang “Hum Honge Kamyab” (We Shall Overcome) aloud. Sweets were distributed to all. The organizers’ only wish and prayer was that the message would reach the hearts and minds of the people, preparing women and girls better to face such lurking evils in society.