DLSA holds sensitisation programme for child protection officers in Khammam

A one-day sensitisation programme for child protection officers (nominated teachers) was organised by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in Khammam on Saturday (August 22) for the effective implementation of the NALSA (Child Friendly Legal Services for Children) Scheme, 2024.

Principal District and Sessions Judge and DLSA Chairman M. Nagaraju and Khammam District Collector Divakara T.S. addressed the inaugural session, according to a press release.

They stressed the importance of sensitising teachers about child protection mechanisms, noting that schools play a crucial role in identifying children facing abuse, neglect, exploitation or other vulnerable circumstances at an early stage.

A safe and approachable environment in schools would encourage children to report their concerns without fear and facilitate timely intervention by authorities, they said.

The daylong programme covered child rights, the role of Child Protection Officers, functioning of the DCPU and CWC, identification and referral of children in need of care and protection and children in conflict with the law, mandatory reporting under the POCSO Act, prevention of child marriage and child labour, cyber safety, and child-friendly justice under the juvenile justice framework.

The programme is aimed to equip nominated teachers with practical knowledge to identify vulnerable children, ensure timely reporting and facilitate access to appropriate legal and institutional support.