Kolkata, July 27, 2026: Recognizing the growing importance of children’s mental well-being and safety, St. Augustine’s Day School, in collaboration with the Azim Premji Foundation, Hyderabad, has launched a three-day seminar and workshop titled “Intervention for Strengthening Child Mental Health and Protection in Schools.” The programme is being held from July 27 to 29, 2026, at the C.R. Gasper Memorial Hall.
The initiative aims to strengthen child protection practices and promote mental health awareness in schools by equipping educators, teachers, and school counselors with practical knowledge and effective strategies to create safe, inclusive, and emotionally supportive learning environments.
Addressing the media, Dr. Richard Gasper, Principal of St. Augustine’s Day School, emphasized the urgent need for schools to build systems that support both the emotional well-being and protection of children. He said the workshop has been designed to empower educators with the skills needed to identify concerns at an early stage and respond effectively.
The programme features two eminent experts in child and adolescent mental health:
- Dr. Shekhar Seshadri, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist with extensive expertise in school mental health and child protection.
- Dr. Sheila Ramaswamy, a leading specialist in child protection and psycho-social care, known for her significant contributions to safeguarding children’s rights and well-being.
Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Shekhar Seshadri said participants will engage in interactive sessions covering key areas such as strengthening mental health support systems in schools, recognizing children’s psycho-social needs, implementing effective child protection measures, and creating nurturing educational environments.
Dr. Sheila Ramaswamy highlighted that schools today must adopt a holistic approach that places equal importance on children’s mental health and safety. She stressed that empowering teachers and counselors will help schools identify challenges early, provide timely support, and foster resilience and positive mental health among students.
The workshop is being attended by educators, teachers, school counselors, and professionals associated with the education and child development sectors.
Programme Details:
- Title: Intervention for Strengthening Child Mental Health and Protection in Schools
- Dates: July 27–29, 2026
- Venue: C.R. Gasper Memorial Hall, St. Augustine’s Day School
- Resource Persons: Dr. Shekhar Seshadri & Dr. Sheila Ramaswamy
- Participants: Educators, Teachers, and School Counselors
Also present at the press meet were Mrs. Edna Gasper, President of the School, and Mrs. Esther Gasper, who expressed their commitment to strengthening child protection and mental health initiatives within educational institutions.
