A sensitisation programme on School-Related Gender-Based Violence (SRGBV) was held at Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Kigwema, on September 9 under the initiative of the Lighthouse School Complex (LSC) SRGBV Committee, Kohima.
The programme brought together students, teachers and non-teaching staff to raise awareness on child protection, gender equality, safe reporting mechanisms and prevention of violence, with emphasis on creating a safe, inclusive and child-friendly school environment.
Resource persons from the District Child Protection Unit, Child Welfare Committee, One Stop Centre, Child Helpline 1098 and police addressed the gathering.
District Child Protection Officer Sekho Dawhuo highlighted the role of the LSC SRGBV Committee and stressed that preventing school-related violence requires active participation from students, teachers, school authorities and the wider community.
Child Welfare Committee member Kielie Nakhro sensitised participants on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, including children’s rights to privacy and confidentiality.
One Stop Centre Administrator Vimenu Richa spoke on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, and emphasised gender equality, respect for diversity and non-discrimination.
Project Coordinator of Child Helpline 1098 Rheituohunuo Whourie explained safe reporting mechanisms, personal boundaries and safe and unsafe touch. She encouraged students to seek help from trusted adults and urged them to call 1098 when a child is in distress or needs protection.
Vikheka Assumi, UBI and OC of Khuzama Police Station, sensitised students on cybercrime, including online job fraud, lost mobile phones and misuse of personal data, urging them to practise digital safety and report suspicious activities.
The programme concluded with remarks from GHSS Kigwema Principal Rose Chishi, who emphasised the collective responsibility of the school community in ensuring a safe and supportive environment for every child.
