On November 20, 2024, the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU), Tseminyu, organized an awareness program to mark World Children’s Day and conducted a sensitization drive at three schools at Tseminyu : Government Higher Secondary School, Assembly of God School, and Baptist Higher Secondary School, Tseminyu. The initiative aimed to raise awareness among students about their rights, the importance of personal safety, and the legal mechanisms in place to protect them. The program focused on Children’s legislation particularly the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012 and the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015, while also emphasizing the significance of child helpline services and how children can access help in emergencies.
Key Highlights of the Program:
The sensitization drive was led by Legal cum Probation Officer Neivotuonuo Rutsa (LCPO ),Tseminyu who elaborated on two critical child protection laws. The LCPO explained the purpose of the POCSO Act 2012, designed to prevent and address sexual abuse, harassment, assault and pornography. She emphasized the importance of personal safety by explaining the difference between good touch and bad touch. She also discussed the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015 emphasizing its focus on children in need of care and protection and children in conflict with the law. She explained how the law prioritizes care and reintegration rather than punishment, ensuring young offenders are given access to education, healthcare, and support systems to help them reintegrate into society.
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The Child Helpline team provided an overview of their services, emphasizing the importance of the toll-free 1098 emergency number, available 24/7 for children in distress. The team reassured the students of the helpline’s confidentiality and accessibility, offering assistance in cases of abuse, neglect, or emergencies.
The awareness initiative was highly successful in addressing critical issues related to child safety and rights. The active participation of teachers and school heads reinforced the importance of a collaborative approach to child protection. Students left the session better informed about the legal safeguards available to them and the resources they can rely on in times of need.
