KOHIMA, OCTOBER 11 (MExN): The State Resource Centre for Women (SRCW), under the aegis of the Nagaland State Social Welfare Board (NSSWB) organised a programme at Mt. Hermon Higher Secondary School Kohima to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11.
The event was held under the theme “With Her: A Skilled Girl Force.”
The State Coordinator of SRCW, Gracy Ayee introduced the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme and the Nagaland Adolescent Girls’ Club. She stressed on the different forms of violence that is taking place every day. Women and girls are vulnerable to all forms of violence, she stated and encouraged them, “When you have education, you are empowering yourself.”
A topic on Child Sexual Abuse and (Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses Act) 2012 (POCSO) was highlighted by Ajabu Tungoe of SRCW. She briefed on the importance of the Act and that Child Sexual Abuse can occuranywhere including the schools, at home or in the streets.
Renthunglo Kikon of 181 Women Helpline, while deliberating on safe sex and healthy lifestyle, encouraged that one should not shy away from attaining information on sex education.
Cerina Belho of Women Helpline explained on the importance of health and personal hygiene to the girls and the developmental changes they undergo during adolescent stage.
A brief introduction on 181 Women Helpline, a 24 hour emergency response service, and Sakhi- One Stop Centre that provides integrated support for women affected by violence was presented by Chothalü Phesao and Toli K Assumi respectively. A short demonstration on sexual abuse was shown to the students on how the Women Helpline and Sakhi- One Stop Centre functions. The act further exhibited how cases are tackled and referred to the appropriate agencies.
The Research Officer of SRCW, Meneno V, chaired the programme and elaborated on the theme,“With Her: A Skilled Girl Force.” Meanwhile in Phek, the day was observed, with Daisy Mezhur, Secretary, Nagaland State Social Welfare Board & Mission and Director, State Resource Centre for Women emphasizing that the best gift one can give to a girl child is education and said that the scheme is for the education and protection of the girl child. She also urged the NGOs, Churches and the departments to give their best and time for the scheme.
In his keynote address, DC and Chairman DTF, Phek, Orenthung Lotha highlighted that the scheme was launched in order to address low sex ratio, empower the girl child and to prevent gender biased selection.
Orientation cum training was held later in the programme which was attended by NGOs, HoDs, Churches and school children.
