CHAPTER 1 CHAPTER 1 - REPORT OF THE EDUCATION AND PROMOTION WORKING GROUP REPORT OF THE EDUCATION AND PROMOTION WORKING GROUP The focus for the year was to follow up on programmes in place, to ensure continuity and sustainability in efforts to raise human rights awareness among the target groups. The Education and Promotion Working Group (EWG) organised human rights education in schools, tertiary institutions, and for the Orang Asli, women, youth and law enforcement agencies. It also published two reports – ‘The Status of Education among Orang Asli Children’ and ‘The Status of Women’s Rights in Malaysia’. 1. RIGHT TO EDUCATION (a) Human Rights Best Practices in Schools In June 2009, the Commission embarked on a pilot project called ‘Human Rights Best Practices in School’ in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The EWG has since worked closely with the five selected secondary schools to provide guidance during visits conducted at least three times during the year. The visits have helped the Commission to monitor the progress of implemention and to ensure that the programme remains true to its objectives. Members of the Commission’s Sub-Committee on Human Rights Education in Schools joined the visits and provided input based on their expertise. The response from schools in developing activities has been encouraging. All five have implemented programmes to instill human rights values among students and the school community. (i) SMK Sultan Abdul Aziz, Teluk Intan, Perak The Commission was informed that the number of disciplinary cases has dropped since the introduction of election of prefects. The students have more trust in, and respect for, candidates of their choice. The Commission observed that, with the right guidance from the school, elections can be held and that there is active participation among students. (ii) SMK Seksyen 9, Shah Alam, Selangor ‘Peti Suara Hati’ provides an avenue for students to participate in matters affecting their interests. It enables students to express their views, voice dissatisfaction or offer suggestions to the school administration. The students feel appreciated when their grouses or suggestions are taken up, 21