The Guntur Province of the JMJ Congregation successfully conducted a pivotal webinar on June 22, 2026, dedicated to the training and orientation of its Unit Safeguarding Officers (USOs). Reflecting the highest level of leadership and organizational commitment, the session was graced by the esteemed presence of Sr. Vijaya Udumala, the Provincial Superior and President of the Commission, alongside Sr. Juli Antony, the Council In-charge of the Commission. Bringing together 32 Unit Safeguarding Officers from various units, as well as the members of the Province Safeguarding Commission, the event stood as a powerful testament to the congregation's deep dedication to creating safe, secure, and nurturing environments for children and vulnerable adults.
Program Proceedings
The program commenced with an opening prayer led by Sr. Parisuddam Matangi, followed by a warm welcome address from Sr. Fatima Mary Kommareddy. The moderator, Sr. Sahaya Pauline Punitha, then invited the Provincial Superior, Sr. Vijaya, to deliver the presidential address. In her speech, Sr. Vijaya acknowledged the significant progress the province has made in safeguarding over the past two years and congratulated the unit officers on assuming their crucial new roles.
Core Presentation and Responsibilities
The main presentation was delivered by Sr. Joseph Mary Mrudu Ravali, the Congregational Safeguarding Coordinator. Her comprehensive session outlined the essential duties and responsibilities of each Unit Safeguarding Officer, which include:
² Establishing Unit Commissions: Forming a Unit Safeguarding Commission that includes at least one layperson to ensure a multi-faceted approach.
² Immediate Reporting: Mandating the reporting of any allegations involving minors to legal authorities (the Police, Child Welfare Committee, or Childline) within 24 hours, strictly in line with the POCSO and Juvenile Justice Acts.
² Handling Complaints: Receiving complaints, conducting preliminary inquiries (only when directed by the Provincial Superior), and maintaining strict confidentiality throughout the process.
² Prevention & Education: Developing and implementing a unit-specific annual action plan, which includes conducting regular awareness and training programs for all staff, students, and stakeholders.
² Documentation & Media Protocol: Maintaining secure, confidential records of all cases and designating a single spokesperson to handle any media inquiries.
Following the presentation, an interactive question-and-answer period allowed USOs to seek clarification on forming commissions and implementing unit-specific policies.
Oath of Commitment
A highlight of the event was the "Oath of Commitment" ceremony, led by Sr. Saritha. Each Unit Safeguarding Officer took a solemn oath to:
1. Uphold zero tolerance for abuse.
2. Safeguard the dignity and rights of minors and vulnerable adults.
3. Ensure absolute confidentiality.
4. Act with the highest degree of responsibility and accountability.
Next Steps and Action Items
As part of their immediate next steps, all Unit Safeguarding Officers are tasked with:
ü Constituting their respective Unit Safeguarding Commissions.
ü Preparing a unit-level code of conduct.
ü Collecting signed self-declarations from all staff and associates.
These documents, along with a signed copy of their oath, must be submitted to the Province Safeguarding Officer, Sr. Saritha Prattipati, at JMJ Prashant Nilayam. Additionally, the printed Province Safeguarding Policy will soon be distributed to all communities.
Conclusion
At the conclusion of the meeting, Sr. Amul Mary Francis proposed a vote of thanks to the president, the resource person, the province safeguarding commission members, and all the participating unit safeguarding officers. Sr. Jayaseela Thirumalareddy then led a meaningful concluding prayer.
This training marks a significant step forward for the Guntur Province in its journey to foster a culture of safety, vigilance, and care for all individuals entrusted to the JMJ Congregation.