Students Sensitised to POCSO Act, Personal Safety and Prevention of Child Abuse
Raipur, October 31, 2026 | Shree Shyam Sandesh News
In a significant step towards strengthening child protection and promoting legal awareness, MATS University, Raipur, actively participated in the nationwide Bachpan Bachao Abhiyan (Save Childhood Campaign). The initiative was organised in collaboration with the District Legal Services Authorities (DLSA) of Raipur and Durg, with the objective of educating school students about child rights, legal safeguards and the prevention of child abuse.
As part of the campaign, teams from the Departments of Law and Social Work at MATS University visited three educational institutions: GD Goenka International School, Sejbahar; Government Higher Secondary School, Marra, Tehsil Patan, District Durg; and Swami Atmanand English Medium School. Students from Classes VI to XII participated in the awareness and sensitisation sessions.
Focus on POCSO Act and Personal Safety
The awareness programmes covered key issues, including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, child rights, safe and unsafe touch, personal safety and the prevention of child abuse.
Through simple explanations, practical examples and interactive discussions, students were encouraged to understand their legal rights, recognise potentially unsafe situations and seek help when necessary. The sessions also emphasised the importance of speaking up against inappropriate behaviour, approaching trusted adults, reporting incidents without fear and seeking appropriate legal assistance.
The initiative highlighted the importance of awareness and timely intervention in creating a safer environment for children at school, at home and in the wider community.
Collaborative Efforts for Child Protection
The campaign witnessed the participation of judicial officers from Raipur and Durg, DLSA representatives, university faculty members and students. Their collective involvement reflected the importance of cooperation between educational institutions and legal authorities in advancing child protection and legal literacy.
The initiative was undertaken with the guidance and institutional support of MATS University Chancellor Shri Gajraj Pagaria, Director General Shri Priyesh Pagaria, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) K. P. Yadav, Registrar Shri Gokulananda Panda and the Deputy Registrar.
The programme was conducted under the leadership of Dr. Payal Chatterjee, Head of the Department of Law, and Dr. Archana R. Tupat, Head of the Department of Social Work. Dr. I. Nagamani Deshlahare, Mr. Om Prakash Kanojia and Dr. Sneha Kumari also made significant contributions to its successful execution.
The university expressed its gratitude to the management, District Legal Services Authorities, judicial officers, school principals, teachers and Paralegal Volunteers (PLVs) for their cooperation and support.
Building a Safer Future for Every Child
Through its participation in the nationwide campaign, MATS University reaffirmed its commitment to social responsibility, community engagement and the promotion of children’s rights.
The initiative underscored a crucial message: protecting childhood is a shared responsibility that requires awareness, sensitivity and collective action. By educating students about their rights and the legal mechanisms available to protect them, such programmes can contribute to building a society where every child can live with dignity, security and freedom from fear.
Every child deserves a safe childhood, dignity, protection and a future free from fear.
— Shree Shyam Sandesh News
