Thu Jul 03 19:51:59 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Schools Implement Stringent Safeguards for Female Athletes

**Chennai – July 4, 2025 (IST)** – In a move aimed at bolstering the safety and well-being of girls participating in sports, the School Education Department of Karnataka has issued comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all schools. The new guidelines, effective immediately, mandate annual background checks and psychological screenings for all teachers, support staff, and chaperones involved in school sports programs.

Key measures outlined in the SOPs include the mandatory presence of a female teacher, school management member, or parent during all after-school and holiday practice sessions. Schools are also required to provide regular counseling services to students and implement awareness programs to educate them on reporting grievances and abuse. The guidelines emphasize the importance of protecting whistle-blowers and mandating the reporting of any suspected abuse.

Coaches are now expected to meticulously document feedback and escalate critical issues to the school principal. A designated Student Safeguarding Advisory Committee, in collaboration with the principal and education department officials, will be responsible for reporting abuse cases to the District Child Protection Officer.

To ensure transparent communication and a supportive environment, coaches and teachers are required to maintain regular contact with parents regarding student well-being. The guidelines also stipulate that female students must always be accompanied by another female student when using restrooms.

Furthermore, all coaches and teachers will undergo specialized training programs focused on gender sensitization, ethical coaching practices, and child safeguarding. These training sessions, to be approved by the Chief Education Officer, will cover topics such as body rights, sex education, and soft skills.

Schools are tasked with raising awareness among coaches, teachers, and support staff on handling emergency situations, including instances of abuse and doping activities.

The initiative underscores the Karnataka School Education Department’s commitment to creating a secure and supportive environment for girls in sports, promoting their safety and well-being alongside their athletic pursuits.

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