Kochi: In a first-of-its kind move, the Kerala government has decided to incorporate awareness lessons about the POCSO Act into its curriculum, from the 2024-25 academic session.
Lessons pertaining to POCSO Act will be taught using an integrated approach.
The State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) is working on this initiative.
The state government’s decision came after Kerala High Court’s observation about the increasing rate of sexual offences against children during a bail hearing.
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas expressed concerns about children not being familiar with the legal provisions outlined in the POCSO Act, even if they are engaged in a consensual relationship.
SCERT informed the court of the measures it has taken on this issue.
SCERT’s counsel stated that efforts have been made to incorporate awareness of the POCSO Act into the curriculum, and the process of creating the relevant textbooks is expected to commence in August.
Experts preparing these textbooks will handle the subject with great sensitivity.
SCERT also assured the court that awareness of POCSO Act will be integrated into the curriculum, specifically for standards I, III, V, VI, VIII and IX. For standards II, IV, VII and X, it will take effect from the academic year 2025-2026.
Following the revision of curriculum, workshops will be conducted by teachers.
The state government informed the court a training session was conducted for teachers on POCSO awareness in May.
The Kerala High Court acknowledged and appreciated efforts undertaken by the state government, SCERT and KELSA in this matter.