SHIELD 2026 – In-Service Education Programme on Safeguarding

Programme : SHIELD 2026 – In-Service Education Programme on Safeguarding
Date : Monday, 9 November 2026
Time : 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Venue : St. Philomena's College of Nursing, Bangalore
Organised : by I & II Year M.Sc. Nursing and VI Semester B.Sc. Nursing students, as part of the Nursing Management course requirements
Participants : Faculty members and the first-year GNM and B.Sc. Nursing students
Resource Person :Sr. Karuna, Subject Coordinator, Nursing Management and Administration

Introduction
A meaningful and thought-provoking in-service education programme on safeguarding, titled SHIELD 2026, was organised at St. Philomena's College of Nursing, Bangalore, on Monday, 9 November 2026. It was planned and conducted by the I and II Year M.Sc. Nursing and VI Semester B.Sc. Nursing students as part of their Nursing Management course requirements. Faculty members and the first-year GNM and B.Sc. Nursing students were invited to attend.

Objectives
The programme aimed to create awareness among students about the importance of safety, dignity, respect and protection for all, especially the vulnerable. Specifically, it sought to help participants:
• Understand the meaning and importance of safeguarding
• Identify the different types of abuse and recognise their warning signs
• Appreciate the importance of maintaining professional boundaries
• Learn the correct procedure for reporting safeguarding concerns
• Recognise their role as future nurses in protecting themselves, patients, children and other vulnerable people

Proceedings
3.1 Prayer Song and Welcome Address The programme began with a soulful prayer song invoking God's blessings and setting a reverent, reflective tone for the gathering. This was followed by a warm welcome address, which greeted the audience and introduced the purpose and significance of SHIELD 2026.

3.2 Mime The highlight of the morning was a powerful mime presented by the students. Without a single word, through expressive gestures and movement, they portrayed situations of abuse, silence and fear, and finally the courage to speak up and seek help. The performance deeply moved everyone present.

3.3 Presentation on Safeguarding
Sr. Karuna, Subject Coordinator of Nursing Management and Administration, delivered an informative presentation on safeguarding. She explained the meaning of safeguarding, the types of abuse, the signs to recognise, the importance of boundaries and the correct procedure for reporting concerns. The session helped students understand their responsibility as future nurses to protect themselves as well as their patients, children and the vulnerable.

3.4 Surprise Quiz The presentation was followed by a surprise quiz on safeguarding. Students participated with great enthusiasm. Ms. Anchal, of the first-year B.Sc. Nursing batch, secured first place and was awarded a prize.

3.5 Thematic Dance
The audience was then treated to a graceful thematic dance that conveyed the message of safety, unity, care and respect through rhythm and expression.

3.6 Message from the Principal
The Principal’s message further strengthened the programme. She encouraged students to be vigilant, compassionate and responsible caregivers who uphold the dignity of every person. She also spoke about the role of the Internal Complaints Committee and recommended motivational films that would inspire students to remain alert in safeguarding themselves and others.

3.7 Vote of Thanks, Feedback and Close
The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of SHIELD 2026. Participants then shared their reflections on a feedback tree, and the programme came to a close at 12:00 noon on a joyful note.

4. Learning Outcomes for the Organisers
Organising SHIELD 2026 helped us, as nursing management students, understand how to lead a safe, ethical and caring system. We learnt that safety is not only a bedside duty but also a matter of policy, culture and systems. In particular, we learnt the importance of:
• Creating clear reporting pathways
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Enforcing professional boundaries
• Ensuring that no concern is ignored
The programme reminded us that a nurse manager is a role model, and that vigilance, compassion, documentation and timely action are essential to protect both patients and staff.

5. Management Skills Developed
Beyond the theme itself, planning and conducting this programme gave us practical experience in leading people, managing time and resources, and delivering results as a team. The key skills we developed were:
• Planning and goal setting
• Division of work and teamwork
• Time management
• Communication and coordination
• Leadership and decision-making
• Budgeting and resource management
• Creativity and problem-solving
• Confidence and public speaking
• Evaluation and learning

6. Conclusion
SHIELD 2026 was an inspiring and enriching experience for everyone involved. It reminded all participants that safeguarding is not just a policy but a shared responsibility: together for a safe and respectful community.