As part of its efforts to strengthen child protection and substance-use prevention, DREAM II Kollam, in collaboration with Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA) , District Administration and the District Social Justice Office, conducted a two-days Teachers Training Programme on 08 and 09 October 2026 at Hotel All Season, Thevally, Kollam, with the participation of 105 teachers from various schools.
The programme was inaugurated on Thursday, 08 October 2026, by Dr. S. Mohanapriya IAS, Sub Collector, Kollam, as the Chief Guest. The first day’s sessions were facilitated by Dr. Anupama Priyamkari, Consultant Psychiatrist, Holy Cross Hospital, Kottiyam, who addressed substance use disorders, early warning signs, risk factors, and the importance of early identification and intervention among children and adolescents. The afternoon session was led by Mrs. Soumya Manoj, Psychologist, Nirbhaya, Women and Child Development Department, Thiruvananthapuram, focusing on legal awareness, child protection mechanisms, and the responsibilities of teachers in safeguarding children.
On Friday, 09 October 2026, the morning session was again facilitated by Dr. Anupama Priyamkari, emphasising substance-use prevention, early identification, and appropriate intervention strategies in school settings. The afternoon session was facilitated by Mrs. Arathi, Consultant Psychologist, focusing on psychological well-being, understanding children’s emotional and behavioural needs, and the role of teachers in providing appropriate guidance and support.
The two-days programme served as a valuable platform for enhancing teachers’ knowledge and skills in substance-use prevention, psychological well-being, and child protection. It highlighted the vital role of teachers in identifying children at risk, facilitating timely support, and creating safe and supportive learning environments.
