Recognising the pressing need, amid growing concerns over child protection in schools, the Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights has recommended the immediate adoption of the Goa School Child Protection Policy 2024.
This recommendation comes as a long-overdue response to the urgent issues facing children in educational settings across Goa.
Developed after extensive stakeholder consultations, this policy is poised to establish a safer and more inclusive educational environment across Goa.
The Goa School Child Protection Policy 2024 lays clear protocols and focuses on prevention, educational integration and enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.
The policy introduces detailed guidelines for preventing, reporting and responding to incidents of abuse and neglect within school settings.
It has been developed with insights from educators, parents and child protection experts to ensure a holistic approach to child safety.
It emphasises proactive measures to safeguard against bullying, cyberbullying, and other forms of abuse and outlines clear protocols for the management of abuse cases, including the timely reporting and handling of incidents.
It recommends the integration of safety measures into the educational curriculum and school administrative policies.
"The recommendation of the Goa School Child Protection Policy 2024 marks a crucial step towards reinforcing the safety net for our students within the educational institutions," augurs Chairperson of the Commission, Peter Floriano Borges.
This policy is not just a document, but a commitment to protect our children from any harm and ensure their rights are always safeguarded. The Commission is dedicated to overseeing its effective implementation, ensuring every child benefits from a safe and supportive learning environment
Peter Floriano Borges, Chairperson of the Commission.
"This policy is not just a document but a commitment to protect our children from any harm and ensure their rights are always safeguarded," he expressed.
"The Commission is dedicated to overseeing its effective implementation, ensuring every child benefits from a safe and supportive learning environment," Borges added.
The commission has sought a detailed compliance report from the Directorate of Education within 30 days of this letter outlining the actions taken to implement the policy and any initial outcomes or challenges encountered.
This policy has the potential to create a significant positive impact. By prioritising the safety and well-being of students, the Goa School Child Protection Policy 2024 can foster a nurturing learning environment for all.