Panaji: The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (SCPCR) has recommended a pivotal directive to the Directorate of Education, seeking to prohibit the involvement of children in selling raffles and lotteries for school fundraising activities.
The decision follows a series of complaints from concerned parents and educators, highlighting the coercive nature of such practices. Children are often compelled to sell raffles and lotteries with assigned sales targets, leading to undue pressure and humiliation when they fail to meet these targets. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential misuse of proceeds from these activities.
Chairperson of the GSCPCR, Peter F. Borges, emphasised the urgency of this directive, stating, "The practice of engaging children in commercial activities contradicts our commitment to their rights, dignity, and well-being. It's crucial to cease these activities to ensure a learning environment free from pressure and exploitation."
The DoE has been directed to halt this practice across all educational institutions under its jurisdiction promptly and an action report is awaited within 15 days.
