In a significant step towards fostering a secure educational environment, the faculty and support staff of Seth MR Jaipuria School's Goel Campus in Lucknow underwent comprehensive training on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, 2013. The workshop, held on Saturday, aimed to equip the school's workforce with the knowledge to build a safe, inclusive, and respectful workplace.
Expert-Led Session on Legal Frameworks and Safeguards
The insightful workshop was led by Rajesh Pandey, Director of Abhivriddhi Innovation & Consultants Pvt Ltd, alongside consultant and trainer Saumyata Pandey. The session provided a deep dive into the legalities and practical applications of the PoSH Act. It meticulously traced the evolution of this crucial legislation and elucidated the constitutional safeguards that underpin it, specifically referencing Articles 14, 15, 19, and 21 of the Indian Constitution.
Furthermore, the trainers connected the national law to international commitments by highlighting frameworks like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). This provided participants with a holistic understanding of the global and local context of preventing sexual harassment.
Real-Life Scenarios and Practical Implementation
Moving beyond theoretical knowledge, the workshop employed real-life case studies and scenario-based discussions to drive the message home. This interactive approach was designed to sensitize the 90 teachers and 60 administrative and support staff members in attendance. The key focus areas included:
- Recognising subtle and overt forms of inappropriate behaviour.
- Understanding the formal complaint mechanisms available under the Act.
- Clarifying the critical role and responsibilities of the Internal Committee (IC) mandated by the PoSH Act.
This practical dimension ensured that staff members could translate their learning into actionable vigilance and response within the school premises.
Building the Foundation for a Progressive Institution
The workshop concluded with a powerful emphasis on institutional responsibility. School Principal Rina Pathak underscored the session's importance, stating, "A safe and respectful workplace is the foundation of a progressive institution." This statement reflects the school's commitment to not just academic excellence but also to the holistic well-being and dignity of every individual within its ecosystem.
The proactive training of 150 staff members at Seth MR Jaipuria School sets a commendable precedent for educational institutions in Lucknow and beyond. It demonstrates a serious commitment to legal compliance and, more importantly, to cultivating an environment where safety and respect are non-negotiable pillars of the workplace culture.
