HCM CITY – Inmates aged between 10 and 20 living in HCM City’s shelters and disadvantaged children taking part in welfare projects were taught how to protect themselves from sexual abuse in a contest held on Sunday.

The contestants performed plays, songs, and fashion shows on the topic of protecting children.

The most impressive play was staged by children from Hoa Hồng Nhỏ Shelter in District 7.

It was about a woman who borrowed money to gamble. After running up large loans, she tries to force both her two daughters, one a child, to have sex with lenders.

The older sister refuses to accept this and the two complain to the police.

The play’s message is that when anyone faces a risk of sexual abuse, they should not hesitate to report to the authorities.

Sexual harassment on public transport and ways for children to protect themselves was highlighted through the plays in the contest.

The contest also told the children about their rights under the new Law on Children, which came into effect in June.

A 15-year-old boy who takes part in the HCM City Child Welfare Association’s Tre Xanh project -- whose beneficiaries are orphans and people whose parents are in prison -- said in real life he often faced the situations highlighted in the plays.

The contest had taught him how to recognise and avoid the threat of sexual abuse, he said.

Lương Thị Thuận, chairwoman of the HCM City Child Welfare Association, said: “Relevant agencies are paying close attention to helping children protect themselves from abuse. The whole community is joining hands for this task, but it is important for children to know how to protect themselves."

The contest was held in co-operation with Dynamo International-Street Workers Network. — VNS