By Ratandeep Chawla for BIS Mumbai

EDCG (Emotional Development and Career Guidance), an emotional wellbeing programme initiated by Prafulta under the guidance of Fr Godfrey D'Sa and Ms Shalu Mehrotra and supported by Larson and Toubro is conducted in various less privileged schools, whereby workshops on different topics relevant for that age group are facilitated by Prafulta counsellors coordinated by Ms Kumkum Jagadish.

As a part of the EDCG program, Canossa High School conducted a two-phase Anti-Bullying Campaign. This initiative emerged from concerns expressed by students and parents about teasing and bullying within the school. The campaign aimed to build awareness, encourage empathy, and promote a safer and emotionally supportive school environment.

The campaign began with student sessions on Handling Emotions and Bullying. Students were introduced to the objectives of the campaign and were encouraged to plan activities that would spread awareness. Each division selected 2–3 activities and appointed EDCG Monitors to guide their classmates. While preparation levels varied during the follow-up, many students demonstrated initiative by creating posters, messages, and awareness charts. Teachers and Ms Lakshmi provided essential motivation and guidance throughout.

The first presentations on September 10, 2025 showcased a wide range of student-led activities—skits, posters, debates, speeches, charts, and concept-based role-plays.

One notable initiative was introduced by Std 7, called “Mini Prafulta”—a small group of students along with teachers provided support. This team aimed to create a safe and confidential space for classmates who experienced bullying or emotional distress. They offered listening support, encouraged positive behaviour, and helped build a culture of kindness. Their campaign slogan was: “Speak Up, We’re Here for You.”

Phase 2, held on November 22, expanded participation and brought maturity to the campaign. During the assembly, Std 5 introduced what bullying is; Std 6 in collaboration with std 7 explained myths and facts; Std 7 also demonstrated types of bullying through role plays; Std 8 designed anti-bullying badges and shared prevention strategies, and Std 9 introduced a “Gratitude or Help Box” for students to confidentially share concerns, with access limited to Ms Lakshmi, counsellor Palak, and Prafulta Counselor Ratandeep.

Some students prepared posters and short speeches on the meaning of bullying. Slogans like “Be an Upstander, Not a Bystander” and “Kindness is Strength” appeared across classrooms.

A key highlight across both phases was the participation of students who are usually quiet or  do not volunteer to speak in front of the class. Their courage to address a sensitive topic like bullying was one of the most meaningful outcomes of this campaign.

Overall, the Anti-Bullying Campaign strengthened student voice, promoted emotional awareness, and encouraged a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment. This campaign became a possibility because of the Principal Sr Sheela's faith in promotion of Mental Health and prevention of bullying.