SACPPE sensitises students on substance abuse, child protection mechanisms

Srinagar, July 21: The South Asia Center for Peace and People’s Empowerment (SACPPE) organised an awareness and sensitisation event on substance abuse prevention at Shining Star Public High School here on Saturday to enhance child protection mechanisms.
This event is part of SACPPE’s ongoing initiative to ensure that children, especially those at risk, benefit from robust protection services, the SACPPE said in a press release issued here.
The programme, titled “Sensitisation on Substance Abuse: Rehabilitation and Prevention”, aims to educate students about the dangers of substance abuse and empower stakeholders, including teachers and community leaders, on the importance of child protection and the resources available to support at-risk children.
Interactive sessions were conducted by experts from SACPPE, focusing on various aspects of child protection, such as recognising signs of abuse and accessing support services. The experts shared their insights and provided practical advice on safeguarding children’s well-being.
“Our mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment for every child. Today’s event is a crucial step in raising awareness and building a community that is vigilant and proactive in protecting our children,” said Umar Bhat, president of SACPPE, in his speech.
A special segment was dedicated to educating children about their rights and encouraging them to speak up if they feel unsafe. Role-playing activities and storytelling sessions engaged the young audience, making the information accessible and relatable.
Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the different support systems available and how to access them. The Shining Star Public High School management expressed gratitude to SACPPE for choosing their institution for this crucial event. “This programme has enlightened our students and staff about the importance of child protection. We are committed to implementing the learnings from today to create a safer school environment,” the vice-principal of the school said.
He said the event’s success underscores the vital role of community engagement in strengthening child protection mechanisms. SACPPE plans to organise similar events across Srinagar to ensure widespread awareness and participation, he added.