Officials urged students to stay away from addiction, understand legal rights, and prioritise education during a gender awareness programme in Madhugiri
An awareness programme on gender sensitivity, girl child education, legal rights, and student welfare was organised at Sri Shivananda High School in Tambadi village of Tumakuru district. Officials highlighted the importance of education, health, women's empowerment, and protection laws while encouraging students to lead disciplined and responsible lives.
Tumakuru: Students should focus on education and personal development instead of falling prey to harmful addictions such as smoking, alcohol consumption and drug abuse, Women and Child Development Officer Ambika K.H. said while addressing an awareness programme held at Sri Shivananda High School in Tambadi village of Madhugiri taluk.
The programme on gender sensitivity, gender equality and the importance of girl child education was organised jointly by the District Administration, Zilla Panchayat, Women and Child Development Department, Women Empowerment Unit, Tumakuru, and Sri Shivananda High School.
Girl Child Education and Gender Awareness Highlighted in Tumakuru
Addressing students, Ambika K.H. stressed that education plays a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and empowering girls. She urged students to stay away from unhealthy habits and instead build a future based on discipline, determination and positive values.
She also explained key provisions of the Child Marriage Prohibition Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, helping students understand their legal rights and responsibilities.
The session further covered topics including balanced nutrition, prevention of anaemia, goal setting, time management, discipline, safe and unsafe touch, and the importance of value-based education.
"Students should never become slaves to smoking, alcohol or drugs. Education, discipline and awareness are the foundation for a successful future," Ambika K.H. said.
Mission Shakti Promotes Women's Empowerment and Legal Awareness
District Mission Coordinator Shashidhar H.G. said legal awareness is essential for ensuring the safety, security and empowerment of women under the Government's Mission Shakti initiative.
He spoke about gender equality, the social issues of dowry, women's empowerment and the significance of educating the girl child. Students and participants were also informed about women's legal rights, the availability of free legal aid and the process of obtaining legal assistance.
He further explained the legal safeguards available to women in matters such as child custody and other family-related legal issues.
"Legal awareness empowers women to protect their rights and access justice whenever required," Shashidhar H.G. said.
Students Informed About Women's and Children's Helpline Services
Accountant Poojashree S. created awareness about the support systems available for women and children facing violence or emergencies.
She explained that complaints relating to violence against women, domestic abuse, cyber harassment, kidnapping and other emergencies can be reported through the Women's Helpline 181, which operates round the clock.
Students were also informed about the Child Helpline 1098 and the Emergency Response Support System 112, including when and how these services should be used.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana Explained to Students in Tumakuru
Programme Assistant Ranjitha B.R. provided information about the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, describing it as one of the Government of India's flagship small savings schemes aimed at securing the financial future of girl children.
She explained that the scheme supports higher education and future marriage expenses and forms an important part of the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao initiative.
School Community Participates in Awareness Programme in Tumakuru
The programme concluded with active participation from students, teachers and school authorities.
Principal Ramakrishna S.G., teachers Geetanjali M., Prabha H.A., other faculty members and students attended the event, reaffirming the school's commitment to promoting awareness on education, gender equality and student welfare.
