Chennai Corporation to Survey 418 Schools for Out-of-School Children, Psychologists to Assist
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) will launch a survey of out-of-school children across 418 schools in the city starting August. The civic body has also announced the appointment of 17 psychologists to support these children and equip teachers with practical strategies to enhance students’ emotional well-being and positive development.
The decision follows concerns raised by councillors about the reliability of data on out-of-school children in recent years. Ward 84 councillor J. John noted that the number of such children has been rising in zones like Ambattur due to poverty and other social issues.
“Principals and teachers need to be sensitised. Psychologists should intervene. Some GCC school principals in Ambattur have prevented 10th standard students from socially weaker families from attending school, claiming the student is likely to fail in the public exam. These teachers and principals need intervention from psychologists,” Mr. John said.
On Saturday, GCC held its first psychological orientation programme for the academic year, targeting 211 Gender Club teachers. Organised by the GCC Gender and Policy Lab, the session aimed to strengthen teachers’ understanding of child and adolescent psychology and provide practical approaches to support students’ emotional well-being and growth.
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, an International Analytical Psychologist from Zurich, Switzerland, addressed the teachers, stating: “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 allowed 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 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.
