Lucknow ; In a major step towards strengthening child safety and awareness in schools, the Uttar Pradesh Basic Shiksha Parishad has made POCSO awareness and adolescent education mandatory for nearly 2.9 crore students studying in Classes 1 to 8 across the state. The initiative, introduced as part of a new academic activity calendar, aims to educate children about personal safety, rights, and legal protections.
Under the programme, students will participate in age-appropriate activities designed to help them understand concepts such as good touch and bad touch, personal safety, and how to seek help. Schools will organise awareness sessions, seminars, and special programmes at least twice a year, with mandatory participation from teachers and staff to ensure a safe learning environment. To further strengthen safety mechanisms, schools have been directed to prominently display the Childline helpline number 1098 and educate students on how to use it in times of distress. Officials have emphasised that awareness is key to prevention, and empowering children with knowledge can significantly reduce their vulnerability. Alongside safety education, the initiative also introduces a strong focus on adolescent education, including topics such as gender sensitivity, emotional well-being, personal hygiene, and healthy relationships. Special sessions for girls will address menstrual health and hygiene, with schools instructed to ensure availability of sanitary products and proper disposal systems.
Authorities have made it clear that compliance is mandatory for all schools, including private institutions, with strict monitoring and reporting mechanisms in place. Experts believe this move could mark a significant shift in school education by integrating life skills, safety awareness, and health education into everyday learning, making classrooms safer and more informed spaces for students.
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