RENEW, in partnership with the Department of Surface Transport (DoST) under the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MoIT), conducted an educational programme on Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA) and Sexual Harassment (SH) at three schools in Gelephu.
Held under the ACCESS Project in Bhutan, the programme reached 163 students—81 boys and 82 girls—aged between 10 and 14 from Sherzhong Primary School, Tarathang Primary School and Norbuling Central School. The programme focused on personal safety, boundaries, consent, respectful relationships and recognising inappropriate behaviour. Students were also informed about reporting mechanisms and encouraged to seek help from trusted adults when faced with unsafe or uncomfortable situations.
The initiative highlighted the importance of strengthening child protection and creating safe school environments where students can raise concerns without fear or stigma. As Gelephu moves towards the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City, such initiatives are expected to contribute to building a community that prioritises the safety, dignity and wellbeing of children.