Commitment to Child Safety and Education Emphasized at Dharwad Meeting

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Shekhargouda Ramatnal, a prominent member of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, issued a stern warning to officials regarding the critical implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009 and the Child Protection Policy. Highlighting the Commission's unwavering commitment to safeguarding children's rights, Ramatnal emphasized that any lapses or failures in the proper execution of these policies would be met with serious consequences. The Commission, he asserted, is prepared to take decisive action to ensure that the educational and protective measures mandated by these regulations are upheld with the utmost diligence.

This statement was made during a review meeting at the Dharwad Teachers' Training Centre on February 13, which focused on the implementation of the RTE Act 2009 and the Child Protection Policy under the theme ‘Education Along with Child Protection in Schools.’ Ramatnal stressed that the child protection policy should be mandatory in all schools, and the RTE Act should be enforced effectively across the district. He also suggested raising parents' awareness of the provisions of the Act.

Ramatnal proposed appointing guest teachers to address teacher shortages and ensure that classes run smoothly. He further urged the identification and re-enrollment of children who had dropped out of school. Additionally, he recommended that teachers visit homes to better understand the issues faced by children. He emphasized the need to educate parents about government educational schemes and encourage regular school attendance.

District Child Protection Officer Neeta Wadkar underscored that protecting children is as important as providing education. She noted that it is the responsibility of all to safeguard children in distress and help integrate them into society. Deputy Director of Public Instruction S.S. Keladimath, District Project Coordinator Vijayalakshmi Honchinall, and APCO Prakash Bootale briefed participants on the progress made so far and confirmed that the revised 2023 Child Protection Policy would be implemented in all schools by the end of March, with a confirmation report submitted. The commitment to effectively implementing the RTE Act and the Child Protection Policy is crucial to ensuring every child's right to education and safety.

Editor's Note:

The recent review meeting at the Dharwad Teachers' Training Centre underscored the indispensable role of both education and child protection in nurturing the future of our children. With the stern warnings issued by Shekhargouda Ramatnal, a member of the Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights, these directives must be taken seriously. The collective responsibility of officials, educators, and parents to fully implement the Right to Education (RTE) Act of 2009 and the Child Protection Policy is crucial in safeguarding the well-being and rights of our children. 

Skoobuzz believes that, as we move forward with the implementation of the revised 2023 Child Protection Policy by the end of March, we must remain committed to creating a safe and empowering environment for every child to thrive and succeed.