Bhubaneswar: A training programme on “Online Safety for Children” was organised for District Education Officers (DEOs) and ADEOs (Academic) in collaboration with the Odisha State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (OSCPCR) and ChildFund India. Around 80 participants attended the workshop, including officials from OSCPCR, OSEPA, the School & Mass Education Department, and ChildFund India.
In the inaugural session, Babita Patra, Chairperson of OSCPCR, welcomed the guests and emphasized the growing importance of ensuring children’s safety in the digital space. She highlighted the critical role of the Education Department in protecting children from online risks. Dr. N. Thirumala Naik, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, School & Mass Education Department, appreciated the initiative taken by OSCPCR and ChildFund India in addressing such a sensitive issue. He urged participants to actively spread awareness among children and parents to prevent online exploitation.
Ananya Das, SPD, OSEPA, stressed the need to integrate online safety education into the school curriculum. She suggested using engaging and game-based learning methods to make the subject more accessible and enjoyable for children. Sangita Behera, Additional Director, OSEPA, discussed the role of institutions like OSEPA and OSCPCR in preventing online abuse and developing strategies to ensure children’s safety in the digital environment.
Dr. Shrabanti Sen, Director (Programme), ChildFund India, presented findings from a pilot project conducted in Kendrapada on “Online Safety of Children.” She highlighted key observations and emphasized the importance of coordination among departments such as Home, School & Mass Education, and Women & Child Development to promote online safety in Odisha.
Other dignitaries present at the session included Manasmita Khuntia, Kasturi Mishra, and Chandana Das (Members, OSCPCR); Dr. Santosh Kumar Rout and Smt. Prachi Tanaya Giri (Joint Directors, OSEPA); and Smruti Prajna Priyadarshini, Secretary, OSCPCR, who coordinated the programme. Naveen, Deputy Director of ChildFund India, delivered the vote of thanks.
