Familiarising students on child sexual exploitation, abuse: An engaging workshop to create awareness

Online child sexual exploitation and abuse is a serious issue that requires immediate attention and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders, including schools. In today’s digital era, where children have easy access to the Internet and various online platforms, they are increasingly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. It is essential for schools to create awareness about this issue to protect their students and ensure their safety. By educating students about the potential risks and dangers of online spaces, schools can empower them with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world safely.

In line with this commitment, experts from the Supreme Court and High Court organised a workshop on child sexual exploitation and abuse for school students. Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg in Jalandhar took the forefront in hosting this workshop virtually in its school.

The workshop successfully brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from the Supreme Court and High Court to address the critical issue of online child exploitation and abuse. The aim of the session was to raise awareness, educate participants, and develop strategies to combat this heinous crime.

The enriching workshop commenced with a welcome remark and introduction of the workshop objectives by esteemed dignitaries including Justice PS Narsimha from the Supreme Court of India, Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma, Justice Siddharth Mridul from the Delhi High Court, and other notable figures. Their presence added credibility and importance to the event, setting the tone for the discussions that followed.

Throughout the workshop, various key highlights and objectives were addressed to achieve its purpose effectively. The first objective was to raise awareness about the prevalence and consequences of online child sexual exploitation and abuse. Participants gained valuable insights into the alarming statistics and national trends associated with this issue. The impact of online abuse on victims and their families was also discussed, shedding light on the urgent need for action.

Legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms took center stage during the workshop. Participants received in-depth knowledge about national and international legislations related to online child sexual exploitation and abuse. The workshop further emphasised the importance of understanding these legal frameworks and provided information on how to contact the Cyber Cell for assistance. This knowledge empowered participants to take the necessary steps to combat this crime effectively.

The workshop also focused on the development of strategies to improve prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of offenders involved in online child sexual exploitation and abuse. Experts shared their insights on effective prevention strategies, including education and awareness campaigns targeting children, parents, and educators. Special emphasis was placed on social media ethics to ensure safety from online predators and bullies.

The workshop concluded with a note from Mrs. Sangeeta Nistandra, Principal of Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg. She enlightened the students on the biological changes during the period of puberty and provided guidance on dealing with the challenges associated with adolescence. Her closing remarks encapsulated the holistic approach taken by the workshop to address the various aspects related to child safety and well-being.