Strengthening Awareness: Capacity Building on POCSO Act and Laws Against Sexual Assault

On 22nd September 2025, Kolkata Mary Ward Social Centre (KMWSC) organised a focused capacity building training for adolescents from the Dhapa Centre under the IDENTITY Project. The session, conducted by a professional resource person, aimed to strengthen awareness on the critical topics of laws against sexual assault and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

A total of 14 adolescent participants took part in the training, which provided them with age-appropriate, clear, and practical knowledge to help them recognise unsafe situations and understand their legal rights. The facilitator explained the different forms of sexual assault, the rights of children under the POCSO Act, and the procedures for reporting and seeking redressal.

The training emphasised the importance of breaking the silence around abuse and creating a safe environment where young people feel empowered to seek help without fear or stigma. Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, participants were encouraged to ask questions, share their perspectives, and actively engage with the learning process.

Sessions like these are vital in equipping adolescents with both knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and their peers. Beyond personal safety, the program also sought to inspire the participants to become advocates of awareness within their communities, spreading the message of protection, justice, and dignity for all children.

KMWSC remains committed to creating safe spaces where every child and adolescent can learn, grow, and thrive free from violence and exploitation.

“Knowledge is power — and with awareness, we build a generation ready to stand against abuse.”

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