Strict norms in schools to check sexual crimes

Chennai: State govt has introduced measures to prevent sexual violence against children in educational institutions, including strict disciplinary and criminal action against offenders. These measures, decided in a high-level consultative meeting on Monday, chaired by chief secretary, apply to private, govt, and higher educational institutions.
Teachers and staff convicted under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (Pocso) Act will face cancellation of their school and higher education certificates. New teaching and non-teaching staff, both temporary and permanent, must provide a police verification certificate before joining educational institutions. Additionally, all employees will be required to sign a "Child Safeguarding Declaration Document."
Schools must provide "Personal Safety Education" to all students once every three months, teaching them how to protect themselves, seek help if needed, and build self-confidence. Child protection education will also be included in teaching certificate and degree programs, with regular refresher training for all teachers.
A nodal officer will be appointed in each department to monitor details related to Pocso cases in educational institutions. School vehicles transporting female students must have female helpers. In unisex and girls' schools, only female teachers should be appointed for physical education. Female teachers should accompany students to sports competitions, art shows, educational tours, and during overnight stays outside educational institutions.
Access to student hostels will be restricted to outsiders, and only female hostel keepers will supervise maintenance. School headmasters and teachers must immediately report any knowledge of sexual crimes to the police and inform the District Child Protection Officer without revealing the complainant's identity.tnn