Getting a kick out of self protection

When Evanjalin, an eleventh standard student, was asked what she would do if someone attacked her from behind, she had no answer.

Aiming to empower such teenage girls from attacks, Aram Foundation, in association with Coimbatore Corporation, held a self defence training programme for teachers and physical directors of 83 Corporation schools at Ramakrishnapuram Corporation Higher Secondary School.

Participants were given tips to tackle unexpected attacks from outsiders. They would, in turn, train the students, especially girls of their respective schools.

Thousands of students across the city were expected to benefit from the training. The event was organised to commemorate World Day for Prevention of Child Abuse.

“In today’s world, girls need to remain cautious and be equipped to defend themselves. They may be attacked at schools, buses or at any other public place. This programme aims at empowering students to tackle such emergencies and boost their confidence,” said Latha, managing trustee of Aram Foundation.

The participants were trained to handled unexpected attacks with and without weapons, said Vijayraj, chief instructor of Coimbatore Defence Academy, who imparted the skill training to the teachers.

“The awareness level of self defence is very low in India and this needs improvement. Girls can make use of pencils and scales they use in classrooms to defend themselves against attacks. I think such tips should be made a part of school curriculum,” he said.

The participants said that such initiatives were beneficial. ”The training has been very fruitful and I am confident of imparting the same to my children. Such skills need to be imparted to young girls as they are the most targeted,” said Revathy, a teacher of Corporation Ganapathy School.

The organisers also added that efforts were on to impart similar training in a broader way to college students.