Safety awareness programme held for 208 students at Kukma school

Kutch :: An awareness programme on ‘Safe Touch–Unsafe Touch and Cyber Crime’ was organised under the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ cell by the District Women and Child Protection Officer's office, Kutch, at a primary secondary school located in Kukma, Bhuj taluka. A total of 208 students participated enthusiastically in the programme.

The programme was attended by school principal Meetbhai Mer, DHEW's SFL Krishnaben Bhudia, and Sakhi One Stop Centre (OSC) para-legals Archanaben and Parulben.

SFL Krishnaben Bhudia explained cyber crime and cyber safety to the students. They were advised to use mobile phones and the internet safely, exercise caution when accepting friend requests or messages from unknown persons, and not to share personal information, passwords, OTPs, photos, or videos with others. Guidance was also provided on not clicking on unknown links and maintaining privacy on social media. Students were instructed that if they become victims of cyber fraud or inappropriate online activities, they should immediately inform a trusted parent, teacher, or responsible person without fear.

Students were also provided with information regarding emergency helplines. They were briefed on the ‘181 Mahila Abhaym Helpline’ for women in distress or facing violence, ‘112 Janrakshak’ for immediate police assistance, ‘1930 Cyber Helpline’ for immediate complaints regarding cyber fraud or online financial scams, and ‘1098 Child Helpline’ which provides protection to children during times of exploitation or crisis.

Archanaben, a para-legal from Sakhi One Stop Centre (OSC), guided the children on safe touch–unsafe touch and personal safety. The main objective of the programme was to cultivate awareness among children regarding personal safety, cyber security, responsible digital behaviour, and contacting the appropriate helpline during difficulties.