Ahead Of Schools’ Reopening In Odisha; Know The Steps OSCPCR Is Taking

Bhubaneswar: As the Odisha government prepares to reopen schools in the state in a phased manner, the Odisha State Commission For Protection Of Child Rights (OSCPCR) is planning a massive awareness programme focusing on the safety of children, who remain unvaccinated against COVID-19, and their mental health resulting from the lockdown and online classes.

The Odisha government plans to reopen Class 6 and 7 first. In view of this, the OSCPCR plans a 40-day awareness programme across the state from November 20.

On November 19, there will be a ‘Children’s Assembly’ in the state capital. Efforts are being made to hold the event on the state Assembly premises. But if permission is not granted, it will be held at Jaydev Bhawan. In the ‘Children’s Assembly’, the OSCPCR wants a lot of participation from children to hear their views on safety and mental health.

OSCPCR will take their views into account to make policy decisions.

OSCPCR Chairperson Sandhyabati Pradhan said, “Protection of children’s rights and ensuring their safety is our mandate. The lockdown has affected the mental health of children. In view of this, we are launching the 40-day campaign to spread awareness about child rights.”

“The ‘Children’s Assembly’ is being organised as children have a right to participation and present their views. One of the primary focus of the campaign will be school safety during COVID-19. Campaign vans will travel to all districts of the state during the 40-day period.”