By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco College (DBC), Kurla, conducted an awareness session on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH), Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, and anti-ragging regulations for first-year students on August 10. The programme was organised by the Internal Compliance Committee in collaboration with the Women’s Development Cell (WDC) and the NSS Unit of DBC.

The session was conducted by Fr Sunil Pinto, SDB, and aimed to familiarise students with issues concerning personal safety, dignity, respectful behaviour, harassment, child protection, and responsible conduct on campus.

Fr Pinto engaged the students through an interactive discussion on the provisions of POSH, POCSO, and anti-ragging regulations. Using practical examples and situations, he explained the importance of recognising inappropriate behaviour, understanding personal boundaries, and reporting concerns through appropriate channels.

The POSH session focused on creating a safe and respectful environment free from sexual harassment. Students were encouraged to understand the importance of consent, personal boundaries, responsible communication, and accountability. The discussion also highlighted the responsibility of students to contribute to a campus environment in which concerns can be addressed appropriately.

The session on POCSO addressed the protection of children and young persons from sexual offences. Students were encouraged to recognise unsafe situations, respond responsibly, and seek assistance from trusted adults and appropriate authorities when necessary.

The anti-ragging session highlighted the harmful effects of ragging and the responsibility of students to promote a positive campus culture. Fr Pinto explained that acts presented as harmless or humorous can cause emotional and psychological distress and emphasised the importance of respecting the dignity and well-being of others.

The programme was conducted in three batches to facilitate interaction with students from different programmes. The first session, for FYBMS students, was held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by sessions for FYBAMMC and FYBAF students from 11 a.m. to noon, and FYHS students from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. All sessions were held at the Seminar Hall on the third floor of D Wing, Don Bosco College campus.

The interactive sessions enabled students to reflect on situations they may encounter and understand the importance of speaking up against harassment, abuse, bullying, and ragging. The programme reinforced the role of students in maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive campus.

The awareness initiative contributed to DBC’s efforts to promote student safety, dignity, responsible behaviour, and awareness of institutional mechanisms available to address concerns.