The Lusófona University School of Education hosted a lecture on the protection of children's rights and the prevention of at-risk situations
On 9 January, IPLUSO hosted a session dedicated to the theme “CPCJ: who we are and what we do”, led by Dr Carlos Duarte, representative of the Barreiro Commission for the Protection of Children and Young People (CPCJ).
The event brought together students from the Professional Higher Technical Course in Child and Youth Support and the Bachelor's Degree in Basic Education at IPLUSO, as well as lecturers (Ana Rocha, Carla Galego, Teresa Ramilo, Daniela Semião and Maria Neves Gonçalves), with the aim of deepening knowledge about the mission and functioning of CPCJs and reflecting on the role of educational institutions in promoting children's rights and protection.
During the lecture, the speaker presented the main areas of activity of CPCJs, explaining how these commissions intervene in the prevention and monitoring of at-risk situations. He also shared practical experiences and addressed the challenges of networked work, emphasising the importance of cooperation between schools, families and local authorities.
During his intervention, Dr Carlos Duarte highlighted that “protecting children is a collective responsibility. Whenever someone becomes aware of a situation of danger, they must report it to the CPCJ, the police authorities, or judicial bodies.” He further stressed that “when the life, integrity or freedom of a child is at risk, reporting it is a legal duty. Being attentive, sharing information and acting responsibly are fundamental attitudes to ensure the well-being of children — their protection must always come first.”
The session generated great interest and active participation from students; some are currently undertaking placements at CPCJs, which gave them the opportunity to reflect on their role as future educators and teachers in defending children's rights.
At the closing, Professor Dulce Franco, event coordinator, thanked the speaker, highlighting that “initiatives like this reinforce the sense of social responsibility and the ethical commitment that guide the training of our students as future professionals and citizens”.
As a symbolic gesture of appreciation, student Carolina Rocha, in her third year of the Bachelor's Degree in Basic Education and currently on placement at a CPCJ, presented the speaker with a thank-you poster, created on her own initiative and on behalf of the class.
