by Mrs Dorothy Fernades for BISMumbai

As part of its ongoing commitment to teacher development and student well-being, Don Bosco High School, Naigaon, conducted a special session for the teaching faculty on 'Bullying: Emotional Development and Career Guidance (EDCG)'.

The session was led by Mrs Olivia Almeida, who addressed the pressing issue of bullying - an aggressive behavior that negatively affects students' emotional growth and academic performance. The aim was to equip teachers with strategies to identify, prevent, and respond to bullying effectively within the school environment.

The session provided valuable insights into the various forms of bullying - physical, verbal, social, and cyber - and their impact on students, including anxiety, low self-esteem, academic decline, and social withdrawal. It also explored the root causes of bullying, such as peer pressure, insecurity, and the lack of emotional support at home or among peers. Through real-life examples, case studies, and reflective discussions, teachers developed a clearer understanding of how bullying manifests and how to identify early warning signs in students.

The session enhanced educators' emotional intelligence and empathy, strengthening their ability to understand students' behaviors and emotional needs. It reinforced the importance of a positive classroom climate where every student feels valued and safe. The discussion also highlighted the role of early career guidance in helping students regain confidence and set constructive, goal-oriented pathways after experiencing bullying.

The session concluded with a reminder that teachers are not only educators but also mentors and protectors. By providing teachers with the right tools and understanding, the EDCG initiative continues to promote a school culture where safety, compassion, and growth are central to ever student's experience.