Elementary, secondary schools asked to tackle human rights topics

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Education has called on schools nationwide to integrate human rights lessons in classes and other school activities as the country marks National Human Rights Consciousness Week.

In a memorandum issued this week, Education Secretary Armin Luistro asked public and private elementary and high schools to take part in the nationwide commemoration from December 4-10.

“All public and private elementary and secondary schools are encouraged to carry out activities in subject areas in which topics on human rights are integrated during the regular classroom discussions,” Luistro said.

He said schools should also hold essay and drawing contests on this year’s theme “End Impunity: Make Human Rights our Way of Life” to spread awareness on human rights protection among students.

“This aims to raise awareness on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (of the United Nations) and promote respect and understanding on the rights proclaimed under the universal declaration in order to create a sustainable human rights culture in the country,” Luistro said.

Schools were encouraged to read and study the UN human rights declaration.

In hopes of promoting and protecting children’s rights in school, DepEd is also finalizing a comprehensive child protection policy to prevent all forms of child abuse in school.

In an earlier interview, Luistro said the policy aims to develop “structures that will support the school as a safe haven and a real learning environment meant for students.” –Tarra Quismundo, Philippine Daily Inquirer