Date:12 th -16 th August 2024

Organized by:Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Hyderabad (SCMS-H)

Venue:Classrooms (SCMS-H)

1. Introduction

The Symbiosis Centre for Management Studies, Hyderabad (SCMS-H), initiated a series of activities to mark Anti-Ragging Week from 12th to 16th August 2024. The campaign aimed to foster awareness about the legal, psychological, and social aspects of ragging, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe and inclusive environment on campus. The activities commenced on 12th August 2024, designated as Anti-Ragging Day, with multiple awareness sessions organized for all three batches of students.

2. Overview of Awareness Sessions

a. Purpose and Objectives

The primary objective of the awareness sessions was to educate students about the grave consequences of ragging and to inform them about the stringent measures to prevent such incidents. These sessions were designed as an engaging and impactful medium to deliver the message against ragging.

b. Audience

The awareness sessions were conducted separately for each of the three batches at SCMS-H, ensuring that all students received the information directly and could participate in discussions. The sessions were well-attended, reflecting the seriousness with which the institution and the students approached the topic.

3. Content of the Awareness Sessions

a. Screening of Brief Documentaries

To set the tone for the sessions, each began with screening carefully selected brief documentaries. The content of these documentaries included:

• Real-Life Incidents: These videos portrayed real-life stories of ragging victims, illustrating the severe psychological and physical trauma inflicted by such acts. The aim was to humanize the issue and make it relatable to the students.

• Legal Consequences: The documentaries highlighted the legal repercussions of ragging, including imprisonment, fines, and other penalties under the law. This was done to deter potential perpetrators by making them aware of the severe consequences.

• Institutional Measures: The videos also showcased the measures taken by educational institutions, including SIU, to prevent ragging, such as forming anti-ragging squads, helplines, and counseling services.

b. Address by Anti-Ragging Squad Member

Following the documentaries, a student member of the Anti-Ragging Squad from the Symbiosis International University (SIU-H) campus delivered a detailed address. The key points of the address included:

• Explanation of Anti-Ragging Policies: The squad member provided a comprehensive overview of the anti-ragging policies in place at SIU. This included discussing the UGC (University Grants Commission) regulations, the SIU Code of Conduct, and the specific policies enforced at SCMS-H.

• Legal Framework Against Ragging in India: The address covered the legal framework that governs anti-ragging measures in India, including the Ragging Act and various Supreme Court rulings that mandate strict action against offenders. The speaker emphasized that ragging is not just a violation of institutional rules but a criminal offense.

• Support Systems for Students: The address also highlighted the various support systems available to students at SCMS-H. This included the anti-ragging helpline, counseling services, and the role of the Anti-Ragging Committee in investigating and addressing complaints. The students were encouraged to use these resources if they encountered or witnessed any ragging.

• Encouragement to Stand Against Ragging: A significant portion of the address was dedicated to motivating students to stand up against ragging. The squad member stressed the importance of a collective effort to eradicate ragging and urged students to report incidents. The speaker also encouraged senior students to actively welcome and support juniors, fostering a culture of mutual respect and camaraderie.

4. Display of Posters

To reinforce the message of the awareness sessions, posters were displayed throughout the SCMS-H campus for the entire duration of Anti-Ragging Week. The posters served as visual reminders of the campaign and were strategically placed in high-traffic areas such as:

• Entrances and Exits: Ensuring all students, faculty, and visitors were exposed to the message.

• Classrooms and Corridors: To maintain the visibility of the anti-ragging message during the students' daily routines.

• Common Areas: The cafeteria, library, and recreational spaces where students congregate.

The content of the posters included:

• Slogans Against Ragging: Catchy and impactful slogans that discouraged ragging and promoted a culture of respect and inclusivity.

• Information on Legal Consequences: Brief but informative sections outlining the legal penalties for ragging.

• Helpline and Support Information: Brief but informative sections outlining the legal penalties for ragging.

5. Impact and Feedback

a. Student Participation and Engagement

The awareness sessions saw active participation from the students. The interactive format, which included documentary screenings, encouraged students to engage deeply with the content. The address by the Anti-Ragging Squad member was particularly well-received, with many students expressing their appreciation for the precise and detailed information provided.

b. Effectiveness of Poster Campaign

' The poster campaign effectively maintained a continuous presence of the anti-ragging message throughout the week. Feedback from students indicated that the posters were a helpful reminder of the information shared during the sessions, and they appreciated the easy access to helpline numbers and support information.

6. Conclusion

The Anti-Ragging Awareness Sessions held on 12th August 2024 were vital to the broader Anti- Ragging Week activities at SCMS-H. The initiative successfully conveyed the message of zero tolerance towards ragging by combining visual media, informative addresses, and a campus-wide poster campaign. The Anti-Ragging Squad's involvement and students' proactive participation were instrumental in the campaign's success.

The activities carried out on Anti-Ragging Day highlight the continued commitment of SCMS- H to ensuring a ragging-free environment. The efforts made during this week will contribute significantly to fostering a culture of respect, safety, and inclusivity on campus.