Zhang Baoyan: Promoting Safety Education of Teens

Zhang Baoyan [Photo Supplied by Interviewee]

The safety of children has generated tremendous concern from all segments of society. Enhancing the protection of teenagers is a significant aspect of the Family Happiness and Well-Being Campaign, launched by the All-China Women's Federation in 2019.

"I suggest including safety education of teenagers in compulsory courses in primary and secondary schools. China should arrange for safety-education experts to compile teaching materials, and to carry out comprehensive safety education among teenagers," Zhang, president of Baobeihuijia Volunteers' Association (a nongovernmental organization that helps reunite lost children with their families) suggested during the annual session of the National People's Congress in March 2021.

To date, the association has helped reunite more than 7,000 Chinese children with their parents. The safety of minors remains Zhang's top concern.

"There is still a lack of national, institutional and systematic arrangements for the safety education of minors during the compulsory education stage in China. It is urgent to strengthen the safety education of teenagers. Specifically, we should carry out legal education, mental-health education and education on safety knowledge and skills. We should also organize exercises to enhance students' awareness and ability to protect themselves when in danger," Zhang said.

"We should educate children on how to avoid and keep away from various risks in a scientific and effective manner. Only in this way can children grow up safely and healthily, and can every family feel safe and happy," Zhang added.

Zhang has paid special attention to the legislation on family education. "The introduction of Family Education Promotion Law is indeed necessary. Family education is related to the happiness of thousands of families, and to the healthy growth of every child. We should protect both the life safety and the mental health of children. The legislation on family education is to tell people how to be a good parent. Every child has his or her own personality. Parents should know what potential risks their children will face, and they should provide relevant safety education to children in advance. Parents should also respect their children and protect their children's legal rights and interests," Zhang said.

(Women of China)