By Tr Grishma Joseph for BIS Mumbai

On July 29, Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul, organised a seminar on the Child Protection Policy (CPP), the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act to strengthen the school's commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for every child.

The seminar was facilitated by Fr Sunil Pinto, SDB, a practising advocate at the Bombay High Court, Vice-Director and Programme Coordinator at Shelter Don Bosco, Mumbai, and Executive Director of Don Bosco Balprafulta. Drawing from his legal expertise and extensive experience in child welfare, Fr Pinto guided the staff through the legal, ethical, and practical responsibilities of educators in safeguarding children.

The session explained the distinction between child safeguarding and child protection, highlighting that safeguarding involves preventive measures to minimise risks, while child protection focuses on responding appropriately when abuse or neglect is suspected or identified. Participants also explored the various forms of child abuse, including physical, emotional, sexual, neglect, exploitation, and cyber abuse, along with the behavioural and physical indicators that educators should recognise.

Fr Pinto provided a detailed overview of the POCSO Act, 2012, emphasising that all children below the age of 18 are protected under the law. He explained the provisions relating to mandatory reporting, the role of Special Juvenile Police Units, and the legal consequences of failing to report suspected offences. He reminded staff that educators are not expected to investigate allegations but are legally required to report concerns through the appropriate channels.

The seminar also covered the constitutional and legal framework supporting child protection, including the Right to Education Act, the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, and the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. Fr Pinto highlighted the importance of maintaining professional boundaries, protecting students' personal information, and exercising caution while communicating with students and sharing photographs on digital platforms.

Through practical examples and case studies, the seminar encouraged staff members to remain vigilant, uphold professional ethics, and work collaboratively to ensure the safety, dignity, and well-being of every child. The session reinforced that child protection is a shared responsibility and that every educator plays a vital role in building a culture of trust, accountability, and care within the school community.