Bhubaneswar, May 21: Keeping student safety in mind, the Higher Education Department has launched a special initiative called “Shaktishree.” To make the scheme more effective, the department has developed the “Shaktishree” mobile application. The department has instructed educational institutions to ensure that students download the app on their mobile phones and learn how to use it properly. Awareness campaigns regarding the app are also to be conducted among students.
In this regard, the department has written to the registrars of all universities and principals of colleges.
Through this app, female students in particular will receive various safety-related services. The application includes features such as an SOS assistant, safety check-in, important institutional information, announcements and notifications, counseling support, and several other student welfare services. Training will also be provided on how to handle difficult or unsafe situations.
Additionally, if students feel unsafe or face danger at any location, they can instantly send their live location through the app. Emergency calling facilities are also available. The app will further provide training modules to help students improve their skills and self-confidence on a daily basis.
The Higher Education Department has instructed higher educational institutions to ensure that all currently enrolled female students install the app from the Google Play Store and actively use it for their safety.
Key Features of the App
Emergency phone service with live location sharing
Counseling support and self-defense skill training
SOS alerts for immediate assistance
Safety check-in facility
Student welfare and awareness services
The department has asked institutions to treat the matter seriously. Notices are to be issued, and awareness should be spread through orientation programs, classroom communication, WhatsApp groups, and other channels.
After downloading the application, students will need to register by providing details such as:
Name
SAMS ID
College or university registration number
Gender
Mobile number registered in SAMS
Two emergency contact numbers
The app will provide 24-hour service. Students facing any troubling situation can submit information through the app, and the complaint will reach everyone concerned — from the educational institution to the department level — enabling quick resolution.
Especially during emergencies, clicking the emergency option will instantly alert concerned authorities.
It may be noted that after the death of a female student from FM College, Balasore, last year, the government took the issue seriously and initiated programs like Shaktishree. Plans for the Shaktishree mobile app were also prepared at that time.
The app was officially launched on May 2 by Mohan Charan Majhi. To increase the usage of the app, the department has now issued instructions to all higher educational institutions across the state.
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