Child Marriage Prevention Training Program

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Child Marriage Prevention Training Program

Saptashrungi Bahuuddeshiya Mahila Sanstha, Dhule, in collaboration with the Center for Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBC3), Mumbai, and UNICEF, organized a Child Marriage Prevention Training Program for its female staff from 27 June 2022 to 28 June 2022 in Nashik. The program aimed to raise awareness about the dangers and consequences of child marriage and to educate children and parents about its impacts.

Key Objectives

Increase Awareness: Raise awareness about the impact of child marriage and promote education as a prevention tool.
Educate Parents & Students: Training sessions in 125 schools across Dhule district, reaching students and parents.
Link Education & Delayed Marriage: Emphasize how completing education (e.g., 10th grade) reduces likelihood of early marriage.
Emotional Engagement: Use interactive, fun methods to engage children and parents on the issue and importance of education.

Experiences & Outcomes

Student Sessions

The sessions revealed strong interest in education among children, but social pressures (especially around early marriage) constrain them. Children participated actively—asking questions like “Why do parents marry off children at such a young age?” Creative methods (games, songs) were used to explain consequences of child marriage and benefits of education.

Impact: Increased awareness led girls to reach out to Childline 1098 for help, indicating empowerment and readiness to seek support.

Parent Sessions

Parents expressed fears about relationships, financial burdens, and social acceptance of early marriage. Many viewed early marriage as a way to reduce perceived financial strain or family responsibility.

Outcome: The sessions shifted attitudes—many parents recognized that investing in girls’ education leads to better life opportunities and can delay marriage until legal and emotional maturity.

Training Impact

Increased understanding of the harmful physical and emotional effects of child marriage.
Shifted attitudes among parents toward valuing girls’ education.
Empowered students and parents to challenge social norms and advocate against child marriage.

Future Steps

Sustained Engagement: Continue program activities in schools and communities across Dhule district for lasting awareness.
Stakeholder Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships with local authorities, UNICEF, and community organizations to address root causes like poverty and lack of education.
Monitoring & Support: Provide ongoing support via Childline 1098 and community centers to assist at-risk children and families.

The Saptashrungi Bahuuddeshiya Mahila Sanstha calls on parents, teachers, and community leaders to take a stand against child marriage. Together we can ensure every girl completes her education and chooses when to marry—securing a healthier, more prosperous future for her and the community.