Daijiworld Media Network - Goa

Curtorim, Oct 19: The Maina-Curtorim Police held a meeting with school counsellors from various educational institutions under its jurisdiction, stressing the need for close monitoring of students’ behaviour, attendance and any noticeable changes in their conduct to ensure their safety and well-being.

A total of nine school counsellors attended the meeting and were sensitised to various issues concerning student safety, substance abuse and child protection.

During the meeting, the counsellors were briefed on identifying and reporting cases involving drug and tobacco abuse, as well as suspicious persons or activities in and around school premises.

Special emphasis was laid on child protection under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. The counsellors were advised to remain alert to signs of abuse, harassment or other threats to children's safety and report such incidents to the police without delay.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of monitoring students' absenteeism and behavioural changes, which could indicate underlying problems requiring timely intervention.

The counsellors were urged to maintain close coordination with the Maina-Curtorim Police Station and immediately bring any matter affecting the safety and well-being of students to the notice of the police.

The initiative aims to strengthen coordination between educational institutions and the police to prevent substance abuse, identify potential threats and ensure a safer environment for students.