The Chhattisgarh government’s initiative to dedicate Saturdays to safety awareness in schools has gained momentum with the proactive efforts of the Khushaal Bachpan team. Beyond the initial challenge of implementation, the Khushaal Bachpan team driven by the vision of ensuring a safe, happy, and dignified childhood for children collaborated with the education department. Collectively, they organized workshops every Saturday to delve into critical issues such as child rights, handwashing practices, nutrition other related issues affecting children.

The workshop convened on February 17, 2024, stands out as a pivotal event dedicated to addressing inadequate growth indicators in children. More than a mere lecture, this session became a dynamic engagement involving 13 schools spanning across Bastar, Jashpur, Raigarh, Raipur, and Surguja districts. The session covered comprehensive topic of malnutrition, including its causes, symptoms, and preventive measures, and provided a holistic understanding to the 697 participating adolescents among which 321 were girls and 376 were boys.

In one of the Gram Panchayat of Raipur and Bastar District, the dedicated “Safe Saturday” session went beyond theoretical discussions. It included practical demonstrations and stalls showcasing nutritious foods like Moonga, Moonga Bhaji, Papaya, Tricolour Thali, Soybean Badi, and Ragi. The use of visual aids including ready-to-eat healthy food, greens, and fresh vegetables not only educated the children but also made the learning experience more tangible and relatable. The active involvement of principals and teachers underscored the collaborative effort between educators and the Khushaal Bachpan team in nurturing the students’ overall well-being.

The Lakhanpur block of Surguja, witnessed a multi-faceted approach to combat malnutrition, emphasizing not only awareness but active participation. The engagement of children in discussions about symptoms, prevention, and coping mechanisms brought about a sense of ownership and responsibility among the younger generation.

In Jashpur District, the Khushaal Bachpan academic mentors worked closely with the government school students, emphasizing the significance of a balanced diet and the perils of malnutrition. The inclusion of height and weight measurements added a layer of health assessment, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the students’ physical well-being.The success of these workshops extends beyond informative content; it lies in the collaborative spirit between the Khushaal Bachpan team, the education department, and the active participation of school authorities. Looking ahead, the continuation of such initiatives promises a brighter, healthier future for the children, where knowledge about safety, nutrition, and well-being is an integral part of their educational journey. Khushaal Bachpan’s commitment ensure children’s safety and creating an enabling environment for child rights is resonates through these initiatives, forging a path towards a secure and thriving childhood for every child involved.