The Protection of Children is not only an individual issue, but a community concern. To promote the three goals for child protection namely: Safety, Permanency and child and family well-being, an awareness seminar on Protection of Children from sexual violence was organized in Heritage school under the aegis of J&K State Legal Services Authority, on 17th May 2019. The event was attended by students of classes 6th to 9th as well as the faculty.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by the Vice Principal Ms. Mahendra Kanwar. Ms. Swati Gupta, Secretary, Distt. Legal Services Authority, Samba and Ms. Shalini Sharma, Chairperson, Child Welfare Committee graced the occasion as guest speakers and shared their knowledge and experiences in child protection.

Ms.Swati Gupta enlightened the audience by raising awareness and sensitivity to issues of child abuse and sexual violence and their ill effects. She cautioned the children against physical abuse and emphasized on establishing a strong, social interactive system with family and friends to get rid of this evil from society. She also highlighted that bullying and sexual abuse is a criminal offence and can lead to imprisonment. She advised the students to report any such incident to ensure their safety and protection from maltreatment and bullying.

Ms. Shalini Sharma delivered a highly informative session to promote child protection awareness and talked about protective factors that increase the health and well being of children and families.

The session touched on the meaning of child protection as well as the harmful effects of child abuse and neglect and their consequences for children, families and society. The seminar ended with an interaction and open discussion among the students apprising them about PCSVO Act and other laws and welfare committees for their protection.

The vote of thanks was presented by the school counselor.

The Principal, Mr. Akash Pradhan presented the honorable guests with the school mementos and expressed his gratitude to Ms. Shalini Sharma and Ms. Swati Gupta along with her department for their efforts in creating awareness as awareness beats curiosity and education is the best prevention.