Zero Tolerance Policy Towards Abuse, Harassment On Students: SCSTRTI

BHUBANESWAR: While inaugurating the programme ‘Life Skills Education initiative in residential schools under The Schedule Tribe and Schedule Caste Development (SSD) Department’; Prof. (Dr) A. B. Ota, Commissioner-Cum-Director SCSTRTI (SC & ST Research & Training Institute) stated in a press release, on Saturday, that the department would adopt ‘zero tolerance policy’ towards any cases of abuse and harassment on students in schools.

Dr Ota further stated that the objective of the programme was not only to impart knowledge for better adolescent health, hygiene, nutrition, well-being and responsible behaviour, but also to instil skills amongst student for better communication, negotiation and social skills.

The SSD Department, Government of Odisha, is partnering with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) for ensuring safety and well being of students through life skills education programme in residential schools under the department.

Recently, the department has approved the engagement of 3000 Matrons in schools to ensure availability of lady attendant for students in the tribal residential hostels, said the release.

UNFPA extended technical assistance for capacity building of the matrons on life skills education and safety and security of students.

Mr Kumar Manish, State Programme Officer, UNFPA stated in the release that UNFPA would provide all possible support to the department to promote life skills education in schools.

Around 250 matrons of high schools will be trained in the first phase during the month of June 2016, mentioned the release. The SCSTRTI is planning to train around 1200 additional matrons during 2016-2017.