Ludhiana- On the occasion of International Literacy Day, Punjab Child Rights Commission Vice Chairperson Gunjan Ruchi Bawa visited Government High School, Dhandari Kalan under the 'Nanhe Kadam' initiative. During this, while interacting with about 1200 students, they made them aware about the importance of education, child rights, personal safety and means of getting help. While interacting with the students, Gunjan Ruchi Bawa said that literacy is not limited to the ability to read and write only. Real education also empowers children to understand their rights, recognize unsafe situations and speak up when they face abuse, harassment or neglect.
He also informed the students about the child helpline 1098 and told that whenever a child feels unsafe or needs any kind of assistance, he can get help. Addressing the students, Bawa said, “Literacy gives the child the ability to read the world, but awareness gives him the confidence to move ahead in life. Every child should understand that education and rights are interconnected with each other. When children know their rights and understand that “When they know where to go for help, they become more confident, aware and empowered.”
He praised the school administration and teachers for playing an important role in creating responsible and aware citizens. Deputy District Education Officer (Secondary) Amandeep Singh, school principal Navninder Kaur and school staff members were also present during the program. To encourage the students appearing in the upcoming examinations, writing boards and pens were distributed to the students by Aas Ehsaas NGO. The NGO also wished the students all the best for their examinations and bright future.