The District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) Chümoukedima under the Department of Social Welfare, Government of Nagaland organized a one-day workshop on Child Protection at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Medziphema on May 13.
The workshop focused on the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012. Teachers from the LSC Chümoukedima Complex, comprising One Hub School and four Spoke Schools – GHSS Medziphema, GMS Medziphema Town, GMS Medziphema-Kuki, GMS Medziphema Village and GPS Agri. Colony attended the programme.
The programme aimed at creating awareness on child protection services and the legal mechanisms available for the protection and welfare of children.
Delivering the keynote address, District Child Protection Officer, Chümoukedima, Nikito Zhimomi stated that teachers play a crucial role as first responders in identifying children in distress and ensuring timely intervention and support. He encouraged the participants to utilize the services of the District Child Protection Unit for addressing child-related issues.
Project Coordinator, Child Helpline Chümoukedima, Mhaseto Rhakho highlighted the role and functioning of Child Helpline 1098 and the support services available for children in need of care and protection. He also spoke on the mandatory reporting provisions under the JJ Act and emphasized that failure to report such cases constitutes an offence.
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Legal Cum Probation Officer, Wekhrope Marhu delivered a detailed session on the JJ Act, 2015, rehabilitation measures and the responsibilities of various stakeholders in ensuring child safety and protection. He further stressed that corporal punishment is prohibited under the JJ Act and encouraged teachers to adopt positive and child-friendly approaches in schools. He also elaborated on the POCSO Act, 2012 and the importance of timely intervention and support for child victims.
The workshop served as a platform for strengthening awareness and coordination among stakeholders towards ensuring the safety, dignity and well-being of children.
The programme was chaired by Protection Officer (Institutional Care), Gwanisha Semy, while Principal GHSS Medziphema, Kedanye Thong delivered the welcome address. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by LSC Manager, Chümoukedima, Rokozhalie Namdau.
