Outreach initiative to boost child protection mechanisms in Goa

Amidst the surge in crime against children, over 100 students recently participated in an outreach initiative lecture on 'Strengthening Child Protection Mechanisms in Goa'.

The purpose of the lecture was to strengthen child protection in Goa and to make students aware about the child protection services which aim to bring down abuse, violence and exploitation against children and even prevent it through the right intervention at the right time.

The lecture was organized by the Goa State Commission for Protection for Child Rights (GSCPCR), Fr. Agnel College of Arts and Commerce, Pilar, and the Counselling Cell and Gender Champion Cell of the college.

Chairperson, GSCPCR, Peter F Borges, briefed the students about the child protection services and the systems available to provide a safe and secure environments for the all-round development of children.

Information was provided on multiple legal provisions, policies, government schemes and programmes adopted by the state government for the protection, safety and welfare of children.

Students were also enlightened on their role in strengthening protection for children who are denied their rights to survival, development, participation and protection.

The sessions touched upon how everyone in society has the responsibility of caring for and protecting children since they are assets and future leaders of society.

At the same time the lecture focused on how educational institutions are important platforms to promote child rights.

The main idea behind this event was to make students aware that they play a significant role in promoting awareness on child rights and protection, besides reporting matters in the event of any violation of the rights of children.