A session on “POCSO Awareness and Mandatory Reporting” was conducted for all the teachers of the school with the aim of strengthening their understanding of child protection and their responsibilities under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The session was conducted by Mr. Mukesh Kumar, Vice-Principal and Ms. Kanika S. Madan, School Counsellor attended by all members of the teaching faculty.
The resource person highlighted the key provisions of the POCSO Act and emphasized the crucial role of teachers in safeguarding children. Special focus was given to the legal obligation of mandatory reporting of any suspected or disclosed case of child sexual abuse to the appropriate authorities. Teachers were informed that they should not investigate, probe, or question the child extensively, as their primary responsibility is to ensure the child’s safety and report the matter through the prescribed channels.
The session also stressed the importance of maintaining open communication with students, creating a safe and supportive classroom environment, and treating every child with equal care, dignity, and sensitivity, without bias or discrimination. Participants were made aware of the child protection helpline numbers and the institutional mechanisms available for reporting and support.
The session concluded with an interactive discussion, reinforcing the collective responsibility of educators to remain vigilant, uphold children’s rights, and contribute to a safe and nurturing school environment where every child feels protected, respected, and heard.
