Chennai Corporation will start a survey of out-of-school children in 418 Chennai schools in August. The civic body will appoint 17 psychologists to help children who are out of school and to help equip the teachers with practical approaches to support students’ emotional well-being and positive development.
Councillors have complained that data compilation of out-of-school children have not been reliable and valid in the past few years. Ward 84 councillor J.John said the number of children who are out of school has been increasing in zones such as Ambattur because of poverty and various social problems.
“The principals and teachers need to be sensitised. Psychologists should intervene. Some of the GCC school principals in Ambattur have prevented 10th standard students, belong to socially weaker families, from coming to school claiming that the student is likely to fail in the public exam. These teachers and principals need intervention from psychologists,” said Mr.John.
On Saturday, GCC organised the first psychological orientation programme for 211 Gender Club teachers for this academic year. The Gender and Policy Lab, Greater Chennai Corporation, organised the programme for 211 Gender Club teachers and AEO for all zones.
Regis of the GCC Gender and Policy Lab said: “The programme aimed to strengthen teachers’ understanding of child and adolescent psychology and equip them with practical approaches to support students’ emotional well-being and positive development. The programme was inaugurated by the Educational Officer, Greater Chennai Corporation, who highlighted the significant role of teachers in shaping children’s confidence, behaviour and future. The session emphasised that positive reinforcement, encouragement and empathetic guidance can transform a child’s self-esteem and help them realise their potential.”
Akshaya Raja, International Analytical Psychologist, Zurich, Switzerland, and Matriculated Auditor – ISAP, Zurich, said: “Every child’s behaviour is a form of communication.” She stressed the importance of understanding emotions before attempting correction. Teachers were encouraged to recognise children’s strengths, appreciate their efforts and use positive guidance to nurture emotionally resilient and confident individuals.
An interactive session enabled Gender Club Coordinators to share classroom experiences and discuss behavioural concerns, emotional well-being, peer relationships and effective approaches to supporting children.The programme reinforced the message that a teacher’s words, encouragement and support can have a lasting impact on a child’s life. By understanding, encouraging and positively guiding children, teachers can help shape confident, compassionate and resilient individuals.
Published – July 26, 2026 01:28 am IST
