The child protection measures, he clarified, would apply uniformly across government, aided, unaided, and private schools in Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram: In response to growing concerns over violence and abuse against children in Kerala, General Education Minister V Sivankutty has pledged a renewed focus on the safety and mental well-being of school students across the state.
Speaking to PTI on Sunday, the minister said that alongside academic programmes, the government would take strong action against those who mistreat children. He emphasised that safeguarding children–both at home and in the wider community–was the government’s primary responsibility.
“The government will not tolerate any violence, abuse, or mistreatment of children. We will implement school- and classroom-based strategies to raise awareness and foster trust among students, encouraging them to share their concerns in a safe, confidential environment,” Sivankutty stated.
He added that a special orientation programme would soon be rolled out to teachers in state schools. The training will help them identify behavioural changes, provide psychological support, and respond effectively to adolescent and substance-related issues.
“The training will focus on identifying changes in children’s behaviour and learning patterns, while also encouraging teachers to engage with them in a supportive and approachable manner,” he said.
The child protection measures, he clarified, would apply uniformly across government, aided, unaided, and private schools in Kerala.
Action prompted by recent abuse cases
The minister’s announcement follows a disturbing case in Alappuzha, where a fourth-grade girl was allegedly assaulted by her father and stepmother. Teachers at her private school discovered slap marks and uncovered the abuse through a letter she had written.
Sivankutty had met the child personally and expressed his anguish in a heartfelt social media post. Subsequently, both accused were arrested.
“By providing a confidential space for children to report their problems, we hope to identify those who are suffering in silence and provide them with the necessary protection and support,” the minister added.
In another recent case in Kollam, police arrested a stepfather for allegedly branding a third-grade child’s legs with a hot iron.
New initiatives for early intervention
Sivankutty outlined several upcoming initiatives aimed at giving children outlets to express distress. These include “zero-hour sessions”–brief, informal teacher-student interactions during school hours–and encouraging diary writing.
Under the ‘Suraksha Mitram’ project, ‘help boxes’ will soon be installed in schools for children to anonymously submit letters describing their problems. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) will be issued shortly by the Director of General Education to guide the implementation.
The minister also said the state would consider the involvement of student volunteer groups to help identify children silently suffering from abuse or emotional distress.
‘No to Drugs’ campaign
Asked about the government’s anti-drug efforts, Sivankutty said the ‘No to Drugs’ campaign had made a significant impact among students.
“As the Minister for General Education, I am proud to say that this is a comprehensive effort to create a safer and healthier environment for our students. A key part of this campaign focuses on promoting the physical and mental well-being of people, especially that of youngsters,” he said.
To complement the campaign, the department has introduced activities such as Zumba classes to help students maintain mental and physical fitness and relieve stress.
“We are delighted by the positive feedback we have received from students and parents, which reinforces our belief that these initiatives are making a real difference. We are committed to working closely with our teachers and school managements to ensure this campaign’s long-term effectiveness and success,” he added.
The minister concluded by reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to child safety:
“The government and the General Education Department are fully committed to the safety and well-being of every child in the state.”
(PTI)
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