By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Chinchwad, October 14, 2026: Don Bosco ITI, Chinchwad, organised an expert session on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act for the staff members of the institute. The session was conducted to create awareness about workplace safety, child protection, legal responsibilities, and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment within the institution.

The session was held from 9.50 a.m. to 1.10 p.m. at the Knorr Bremse AV Hall on the first floor. Staff members from the institute attended the programme and participated actively in the session.

The resource person for the session was Fr Sunil Pinto SDB, a Salesian priest ordained in 2018. He is a practicing advocate at the Bombay High Court and currently serves as Vice-Director and Programme Coordinator at Shelter Don Bosco, Mumbai. With his experience in legal practice, youth work, and social outreach, Fr Pinto brought a practical and sensitive understanding to the topic.

Fr Pinto explained the key purpose of the POSH Act in preventing sexual harassment at the workplace and ensuring that all employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities. He highlighted the importance of proper conduct, respect for personal boundaries, reporting concerns through the correct channels, and maintaining dignity, sensitivity, and confidentiality while dealing with such matters.

The session also covered the POCSO Act, which protects children from sexual offences. Fr Pinto made the staff members aware of their responsibility in ensuring the safety and protection of minors. The discussion helped the participants understand the need to remain alert, act responsibly, and support a child-safe environment within the campus.

The programme emphasised the role of every staff member in promoting respectful behaviour and maintaining discipline in the workplace. The session reminded the participants that awareness, prevention, and timely action are important in building a safe educational institution.

At the conclusion of the session, all staff members signed a document acknowledging their understanding of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. This reflected their commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, and harassment-free environment within the institution.

Don Bosco ITI Chinchwad continues to organise awareness programmes that support the professional development of staff members and strengthen the safety standards of the institute. The session helped the staff understand their legal and moral responsibilities and encouraged them to contribute towards a safe, respectful, and responsible campus environment.