The Impact of COVID-19 on Adolescents, Nodal Teachers, and Frontline Workers

Abstract

Adolescence is a critical developmental period that has the power to shape an individual’s dreams and future. Young people have been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Closure of schools and non-formal education deprived them of learning opportunities and also of social engagement with their peers and educators. Prolonged lockdowns/closures and movement restrictions led to additional emotional and mental unrest and anxiety. Adolescents and youth, especially adolescent girls and young women, experienced higher levels of violence due to quarantine and isolation. The authors discuss the effects of these ground realities on access to health services and education during the COVID-19 lockdowns. They highlight important issues and make recommendations for policy dialogue and advocacy around critical areas like vulnerability to COVID-19 infection, physical abuse, limited access to mobile phones, disruption of supply chains, adolescent-friendly counseling, dealing with violence, early marriage, school drop-outs, and trafficking. Recommendations are made to decision-makers and program implementers for addressing barriers to access timely and appropriate care.