Some trainings leave you ticking checkboxes. Others leave you thinking. Our recent POSH training with Dr. Udita Ghosh Sarkar was definitely the latter.

Interactive Learning Through Fun Activities

The session opened with a lively icebreaker, where a simple passing game sparked meaningful conversations. As participants shared their thoughts on topics like gender, harassment, and dignity, the room quickly warmed up with reflection and openness — setting the perfect tone for the training ahead.

Understanding POSH: A Deep Dive

Udita Di then guided us through the history of POSH and its significance in ensuring a safe workplace. She explained how the law evolved and how its implementation safeguards the dignity of individuals in the workplace. The session also explored the definitions, types of sexual harassment, and the roles and responsibilities of organizations and individuals in maintaining a harassment-free environment.

Following the game, the session moved into a detailed presentation on the history and evolution of POSH laws in India. It highlighted the journey from the landmark Vishakha Guidelines to the POSH Act of 2013, emphasizing why these laws are crucial for building a respectful and inclusive work environment.

Team Exercise: Key Tenets of a Safe Workplace

After the presentation, participants were divided into groups, and each group was assigned a task to brainstorm and write down the key tenets of a safe workplace. Once the task was complete, a representative from each group presented their thoughts aloud, giving us an inspiring peek into the collective vision we all share for our workplace.

Key Takeaways from the POSH Training

Gender vs Sex: Understanding the difference — sex is biological, gender is a social construct.

Recognizing Sexual Harassment: It includes unwelcome physical, verbal, non-verbal, and cyber conduct that makes a person uncomfortable or unsafe.

Knowing Our Rights and Responsibilities:

• Every employee must be aware of the POSH policy.
  
• An Internal Committee (IC) must be set up wherever there are more than 10 employees.
  
• Confidentiality and non-retaliation are core to the redressal process.

Duties of Employers:

• Regular awareness sessions and IC trainings
  
• Immediate action on complaints.
  
• Clear communication of POSH policies across the organization. 

Role of Managers and Supervisors:

• Be sensitive, listen actively, avoid making judgments.
  
• Support the complainant and guide them to the proper channels.
  
• Promote gender-friendly workplaces proactively.

At SwitchON, we believe that creating a safe and respectful workplace is a shared responsibility. Thanks to Udita di’s engaging and thought-provoking session, we didn’t just learn about POSH — we felt the spirit behind it. Let’s continue to uphold these values every day — ensuring that SwitchON remains a place where everyone feels safe, heard, and respected.