The Post Graduate Department of Criminology and Forensic Science, School of Social Work, Roshni Nilaya, Mangaluru, organized an outreach programme for third to sixth standard children of St. Ann’s Higher Primary School, Bolar, Mangaluru on the topic “An Awareness On Media Influencing Crime On Children” held on 04 April 2025 from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM in St. Ann’s school premises. The second year students of MSc Criminology and Forensic Science, Forensic Psychology and Criminal Justice specialization initiated the programme with an aim to provide awareness about the crime influenced by the media, laws and preventive techniques.
The event commenced with a soulful prayer song by Ms. Feba Shamma R second year student of MSc CFS. To engage the children and to create a friendly environment, there were a fun warm-up activity and an ice-breaking dance that helped the students to interact freely. Ms. Priyanka M K, student of second year MSc CFS delivered a session on the influence of media on crime, which was tailored appropriately for the young audience in a simplified and interactive format.
The session included a student-led presentation that explored how children can be unknowingly influenced by negative content seen in media, such as cartoons, social media, news or movies. Important aspects such as distinguishing between right and wrong, the importance of making good choices, and identifying real-life consequences were covered. The content was explained through child-friendly language and examples that resonated with their everyday experiences.
An animated short documentary was also screened, illustrating a story that emphasized the impact of media behaviour on young minds. Ms. Feba Shamma R, narrated the storyline and highlighted the key life lessons embedded in the narrative—encouraging values such as kindness, truthfulness, empathy, and personal responsibility.
The session concluded with a short reflection activity and a Q&A round, where the children actively participated by asking questions and sharing their own experiences related to what they watch or hear in media. Overall, the programme served as an effective platform for sensitizing young students on the psychological and social impact of media and fostering critical thinking among them in a fun, interactive, and educational manner. The faculty appreciated the efforts of the postgraduate students in making the session engaging and age-appropriate. The initiative received positive feedback from the school authorities and was considered a meaningful step toward media literacy and behavioural awareness among school children. Ms. Aparna S Shetty welcomed the gathering and delivered the vote of thanks. A total (97) of eight students and a faculty from organising team, 75 students and three faculties from St. Ann’s school were part of this event. Ms. Fathima Farasath student, second year MSC CFS compiled the report.