LLN Conducted Legal Awareness Classes in Schools
Legal Literacy – Nepal conducted legal awareness classes for schoolchildren in the Tokha Municipality from 16 June to 23 June 2024. More than 600 students from 11 schools (6 Community Schools and 5 Private Schools) participated in these orientation classes. These classes primarily targeted at 10th graders; however, students from 8th and 9th grades also participated in some of the schools.
In the orientation classes, the students were informed of their rights against sexual harassment and sexual violence. They were made aware of the different forms of sexual violence, potential perpetrators, potential places for violence, punishment and fines for sexual offences, and the rights of victims for legal remedies. Likewise, students were made aware of the legal proceedings and sentences to Child Correction Homes. They learned about the distressing and abysmal conditions of Child Correction Homes, where children face many problems, including overcrowding, physical and sexual assault, safe water and nutritious food shortage, and no education, legal counseling, and psychosocial counseling facilities in most of these homes. Students were interested in learning more about the legal proceedings and Child Correction Homes and asked follow-up questions for further understanding. Unfortunately, none of the students who participated knew that the Act Relating to Children, 2075 (2018) existed. Therefore, continuing these orientation classes at additional schools and among different class levels is essential to ensure students understand their rights and the support available.