Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK) Mon in collaboration with District Administration, Mon organised a Beti Bachao Beti Padhao awareness programme for adolescent girls on 26th March 2021 at Town Council Hall, Mon. 

            SDO(C) Mon, Ilika Zhimomi, NCS stated that the programme was targeted specifically at girl students of Class VIII since they were at a crucial transitional phase. She asserted that the aim of the programme was to create awareness among adolescent girls on topics which they may not receive at home or in the school. Although the topics may not be part of the school curriculum, she encouraged the teachers to have similar sessions in their school classes. 

            Speaking on reproductive health for adolescent girls, M.O Tang PHC, Dr. Khumrila Sangtam highlighted the physical changes that an adolescent undergoes during the transition from childhood to adulthood. She also highlighted the process of menstruation and the ways to maintain personal hygiene during menstruation. She further highlighted the abnormalities during menstruation which may require professional help. 

            District Coordinator (MSK), Neijoi Konyak spoke about "Good Touch & Bad Touch" where she explained the difference between a touch of care and affection and a touch with bad intentions. She spoke about molestation and urged upon the students not to be scared to voice out and speak up against such behaviour. She also stated that remaining silent to such a behaviour would only encourage the perpetrator to continue further. 

            Coordinator Childline Mon, Eunice Thalih highlighted the programme about Childline 1098 which assist, aid and rescue children in distress through a 24/7 Toll free no. 1098. She stated that Childline teams on receiving a distress call arrives at the destination within 60 minutes. Childline reaches out to children from 0-18 years of age and in extreme emergency cases upto 25 years of age. She encouraged the students to make use of the service for themselves or for others and urged them not to be afraid to report since full confidentiality is maintained. 

            The programme also witnessed a short awareness clip on Childline 1098. 

            The programme was chaired by District Coordinator (MSK), Olem Konyak and was attended by girl students from various schools.

                                                                                                (Renbenthung, IA Mon)