A training programme on “Online Safety for Children” was successfully conducted in Bhubaneswar, bringing together District Education Officers (DEOs) and ADEOs (Academic) to address the growing concerns around child safety in the digital space.
The workshop was organized in collaboration with the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights and ChildFund India. Around 80 participants attended the programme, including officials from OSCPCR, OSEPA, and the School & Mass Education Department.
Focus on Digital Safety for Children
In the inaugural session, Babita Patra, Chairperson of OSCPCR, welcomed the participants and emphasized the increasing importance of safeguarding children in the online environment. She highlighted the vital role of the education system in protecting children from digital threats.
Call for Awareness and Preventive Measures
N. Thirumala Naik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the School & Mass Education Department, appreciated the initiative and stressed the need for widespread awareness among children and parents to prevent online exploitation.
Integrating Online Safety into Education
Ananya Das, State Project Director (SPD), OSEPA, underlined the importance of incorporating online safety into school curricula. She recommended the use of interactive and game-based learning methods to make the subject more engaging for students.
Institutional Role in Child Protection
Sangita Behera, Additional Director of OSEPA, discussed the role of institutions such as OSEPA and OSCPCR in preventing online abuse and developing effective strategies for ensuring child safety in the digital world.
Insights from Pilot Study
Shrabanti Sen, Director (Programme), ChildFund India, presented key findings from a pilot project conducted in Kendrapada on online safety for children. She emphasized the importance of inter-departmental coordination involving departments like Home, School & Mass Education, and Women & Child Development.
Participation of Key Stakeholders
The workshop also saw the presence of OSCPCR members Manasmita Khuntia, Kasturi Mishra, and Chandana Das, along with OSEPA Joint Directors Dr. Santosh Kumar Rout and Prachi Tanaya Giri. Smruti Prajna Priyadarshini coordinated the programme, while Naveen delivered the vote of thanks.
The workshop highlighted the urgent need for collective efforts to ensure a safer digital environment for children and marked a significant step towards strengthening awareness and preventive mechanisms across Odisha.