rapes, slayings and tortures to students at local schools, the international human rights group's Bermuda chapter clarified yesterday.

"We do not go into schools and talk to schoolchildren about cases of rape and torture,'' co-ordinator Ms Lena Ostroff told The Royal Gazette . "What we do in schools is educate children on human rights, freedom of speech and freedom of religion.'' A media report this week claimed that AI Bermuda would be lecturing primary and secondary school students on government atrocities against foreign children and teenagers as part of Amnesty International Week, which kicks off on Monday.

While presenters do discuss foreign rights abuses in general terms, Ms Ostroff stressed that the talks are always conducted in a sensitive and informative manner.

"When we do use information, it is appropriate for the age (of the listeners),'' she said. "It's not graphic. The graphic material is used with members and for fundraising -- adults only. It is not intended for schoolchildren.'' AI Bermuda will be taking its message to the Montessori Academy, Bermuda High School, Berkeley Institute, Sandys Secondary School, Bermuda Institute, Victor Scott School, Whitney Institute and Bermuda College.