Imparting legal literacy in schools and colleges is crucial for fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. It equips students with a fundamental understanding of their rights, responsibilities, and the legal frameworks governing society. Ultimately, this foundation of knowledge helps build a more equitable and just society, where individuals are better equipped to uphold the rule of law and contribute to the common good.
With the support of the Government of Kerala, the District Legal Services Authority and the Center for Women and Gender Justice at the Government Law College have initiated the “Oppam” project in the Kattakada constituency. As part of this project, the “Oppam Niyamapaadam” program aimed at imparting legal literacy to school and college students was inaugurated by the honorable MLA Shri I.B. Satheesh on 17th July 2024 at Kulathummal Government Higher Secondary School, Kattakada. The event commenced at 9:30 AM and saw the participation of numerous dignitaries, educators, and students.
The event began with a prayer, setting a solemn and respectful tone. After that, Smt. Veena A.K., Assistant Professor and Executive Member of the Center for Women and Gender Justice (CEWOGE), Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of legal literacy for young minds. Shri Anil Kumar, President of Kattakada Grama Panchayat, presided over the event, emphasizing the local government’s support for educational initiatives.
The program was inaugurated by Shri I.B. Satheesh, MLA, who underscored the significance of legal awareness in empowering students and fostering a law-abiding citizenry.
Shri S. Shamnadh, Sub Judge and Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), provided insights into the role of DLSA in promoting legal literacy. Dr. Bindumol V.C., Principal of Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram, discussed the academic perspective and the need for integrating legal studies into the broader educational curriculum.
Shri Vilappil Radhakrishnan, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Welfare, District Panchayat, addressed the gathering, focusing on the societal benefits of legal education. Smt. Vijidevi, Headmistress of Government Higher Secondary School, Kulathummal, shared the school’s enthusiasm and commitment to the program. Dr. Sanju V.K., Assistant Professor and Executive Member of Center for Women and Gender Justice (VEDIKA), Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram, elaborated on the program’s framework and expected outcomes.
The event saw active participation from various educational and community leaders, including Dr. Arun Surendran, Principal of Trinity College, Shri Sreekumar, BRC Kattakada Coordinator, and other members of the “Oppam” project.
Post-inauguration, the program included several interactive sessions and workshops aimed at enhancing students’ understanding of legal issues. There was an Ice-breaking Session, conducted by C.A. Beema Beevi, Student Coordinator, Center for Women and Gender Justice & Oppam, Government Law College, Thiruvananthapuram, this session aimed to engage students and prepare them for the upcoming discussions. A Legal Awareness Workshops about “Environmental Protection” was led by Malavika R. Vylopilly, a student member of Center for Women and Gender Justice & Oppam, this workshop focused on legal aspects related to environmental conservation and students’ roles in advocating for sustainable practices, which was followed by another workshop on “Child Abuse Prevention” led by Hiba Biju, another student member of Center for Women and Gender Justice & Oppam, this session was on the legal measures to combat child abuse, educating students on their rights and the protections available under the law.
