They prefer to call it health education though so as not to raise hackles of moral police. But the camp not only covered various physical and psychological aspects of puberty but also counselled them on tackling problems at home.
"Adolescent girls studying in civic schools, especially those from poor homes, are the most vulnerable as crimes against young girls are on the rise. Very often, they face threats of sexual exploitation from their own family members or neighbours. There is a dire need to educate these girls to be alert and identify danger signs," said Sushma Mankar, a teacher who heads the health department. The doctors also interacted with the students regarding superstition, need for hygiene and laws protecting women.
Several doctors interacted with students of Class VII, VIII and IX and counselled them during the day-long camp. "These girls have no one to share their problems with at home. Their mothers are illiterate and ignorant. As a result, they suffer from neglect and lack of awareness about health problems and are victims of child abuse. Such a camp will go a long way in opening their eyes and shaping their healthy future," said another teacher.
The teachers also intend to invite senior police officials to interact with girl students and speak on laws protecting the rights of women. The doctors specially spoke to the students about the spread of HIV-AIDS and importance of upholding moral values. Health education at an early age would only help inculcate respect towards the other gender, curb child abuse by making them aware of distinction between affection and dubious motives, create awareness about the existence and rights of women and the pros and cons of unsafe interaction with the other sex, the teachers felt.
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