Abuse: Dist collector asks kids to speak up

T'puram: Many cases of child sexual abuse are shocking and children should not hesitate to speak up, said district collector Anu Kumari. She was speaking at a discussion programme held at the collectorate as part of third phase of Project X, which aims to provide comprehensive sexuality education to selected students in the district on Wednesday.
Unfavourable conditions at home often lead children into situations of exploitation. Parents and teachers must understand children's issues and stand by them, urged Kumari. Sub-collector Alfred OV added that there is widespread reluctance to discuss sex education and parents and teachers often hesitate to address children's doubts regarding sexuality. The discussion was attended by headteachers of 150 selected LP/UP schools in the district. Representatives from police department and Canal Innovations Charitable Trust conducted orientation sessions.
The discussion programme will continue on Friday and Monday. Project X is being implemented by district administration and state public education department in collaboration with Canal Innovations Charitable Trust, with support from Guide House India Private Ltd.