UNICEF Rallys to End Violence

USPA NEWS - No one should be afraid to go to school. Yet for many students around the world, school is a dangerous place.
Violence in schools ““ from bullying to sexual harassment and corporal punishment ““ is sadly common enough to feel inevitable. But it´s not. It´s preventable. And we can all do something about it.
Violence in schools can have serious long-term consequences on children´s lives, their futures and the future of the communities where they live.

Students are often targeted because of who they are or where they´re from. Far too many students around the world have been worried and afraid of violence for too long, but together we can change the situation.

If you are a student, parent or teacher, take action to demand safe environments where children and young people can feel safe at school, in their community and online.

Classroom by classroom, school by school, country by country, we can #ENDviolence in schools.

What can we do according to UNICEF? Be kind. Strike up a conversation with a shy classmate or quiet coworker. Even something small can improve someone´s day ““ especially if they are going through something difficult. Speak out. If you are worried about your or a friend´s safety, urgently speak to someone you trust ““ this could be a parent, teacher, close friend, older sibling, or a child helpline, which are often anonymous. Remember that you are not alone. Do not keep your fears, concerns or questions to yourself. We know it can be difficult to tell another person about what is happening, because of shame or embarrassment, but you have a right to be safe! If it's difficult to talk about, try writing your experiences down and giving it to someone you trust to read or by sending, posting, or dropping it anonymously somewhere a responsible/trusted adult can see. Share your ideas. How can schools and communities be made safer for you and your friends and fellow students: have your say.

Get creative. Create your School Superhero comic to help you and your friend and fellow students feel safe to learn. Deepen your knowledge and take action. Use the Safe to Learn activity pack to know more about the issue of violence against children and young people and create your own projects for change: > Develop a safety charter in your school, or make a “˜paperchain of promises´ to promote safety > Do a school safety walk and a student-led action plan > Create a community map and action plan > Campaign to make schools safer in your country. School bullying is not a product of third world countries as Australian Model/Actor and Ambassador for Angels Hope has found herself. Recently viewed by millions as she told her story on SWITZER of school yard bullying which nearly took her life . Governments all over the world are now realizing the economic impact this is having on countries everywhere and are working with the United Nations to change legislation in many countries as I write