200 school students attend Peer Educator Training at PGI

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, February 22

As many as 200 students of classes vii-viii from city schools participated in the Peer Educator Training organised jointly by Rashtriya Kishore Swasthya Karyakaram (RKSK) under the National Health Mission, Chandigarh, and Social Paediatrics Unit, Advanced Pediatrics Center, PGI. 

Teachers also attended the workshop. The RKSK is an initiative of the MoHFW to respond to the health and development needs of adolescents in holistic manner between the age group of 10-19 years. 

Dr Paramjyoti, nodal officer, RKSK, inaugurated the workshop by explaining the essence of peer education. Dr Sahul Bharti narrated various stories as well as showed some videos related to routine emergencies and first aid measures. Neil, chairperson, Child Welfare Committee, also addressed various issues related to child abuse, child labour as well as child begging. He informed children about three important numbers to be contacted in case they ever come across any emergency – 100 (Police) 1098 (Childline) and 181 (Child helpline, Chandigarh). 

Deputy Director of the Institute of Correctional Administration Dr Upneet Lalli explained various rights of children whereas State Legal Officer Rajeshwar Singh informed children regarding free legal aid available for those who cannot afford the services. 

Children were also educated about the ongoing project of health promoting schools under Dr JS Thakur and were encouraged to assist their school health authorities for accreditation. 

Dr Jagdeep Kaur explained various dental health issues to the children whereas Dr Pooja decoded various reproductive health issues for girls participants. Dr Sandeep Grover delivered a motivating lecture on mental health issues and drug addiction. The issue of bullying including cyber-bullying was discussed in depth by Dr Monica Rana. 

Dr Bhavneet Bharti concluded the workshop by motivating the children to continue the ongoing process of peer education.