A training program for principals of student ambassador schools on child safety
In conjunction with the Student Ambassador National Program implemented jointly by the National Child Protection Authority and the Ministry of Education, an awareness program on the Student Ambassador Program for principals of schools in the Kegalle, Mawanella and Dehiowita Educational Zones was held this morning (24) at the District Secretariat Auditorium under the patronage of Additional District Secretary (Administration) Kusum Bandara.
The Student Ambassador National Program, which aims to develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes of student leaders in schools regarding child safety, aims to create a child-friendly and safe school environment. This will be done through educating student leaders, obtaining the contribution of student leaders to minimize and prevent incidents of child abuse in the school, involving student leaders in the decision-making process for child protection, and intensifying the mediation process and accountability process through the leadership and attitude development of student leaders to create a child-friendly and safe environment in the school. Accordingly, the principals, teachers in charge of student leaders' boards and scholarship trustees of registered schools will be informed from 2022, and the principals of three education zones registered so far participated in the program today. Dr. Sanath Fernando of the School Education Division of the District Health Services Directorate informed about providing age-appropriate sex education to school children. The doctor further explained that there is currently a high trend of underage pregnancies, child abuse, child mothers, the spread of social diseases including AIDS, and homosexual relationships in the school system.
After that, Mr. Vipula Gunawardena, the Regional Child Protection Officer, joined in to educate children about the protection of children from child abuse and neglect in cyberspace. He provided this awareness with examples related to cyberspace that are common among children in modern society.
Ms. Renuka Jayaratne, the District Senior Counseling Officer, pointed out the importance of counseling students to protect them from dangerous addictions, and Mr. Mahinda Dassanayake, the Regional Child Protection Officer, joined in to share his experiences on the practical programs currently being implemented to improve the attitudes and qualities of children.
Awareness raising on the prevention of corporal punishment and positive discipline in an inclusive approach for children with autism was also held in parallel with this program, and the resource contribution for this was provided by Mr. Padmasiri Gamlath.
Approximately forty-five teachers and principals representing the three zones participated in this program organized by District Child Protection Officer Vinodani Kulathunga and District Psychosocial Officer Chathurika Bandara.
