Bugesera marks Safer Internet Day 2026 with call for shared responsibility in protecting children online

By Elias Hakizimana.

Bugesera District, Rwanda – February 10, 2026 – Stakeholders in education, digital safety, law enforcement, and parenting have called for stronger collective action to protect children online, as Safer Internet Day 2026 was commemorated at G.S Nyirarukobwa in Ntarama Sector, Bugesera District.

The event was organized by Internet Society Rwanda Chapter (ISOC Rwanda) and brought together students, parents, teachers, and digital safety advocates under the theme “Safer Internet Starts With Me – Children’s Safety on the Internet Is Everyone’s Responsibility,” reinforcing the message that online safety demands joint responsibility from families, schools, and the wider community.

Speaking at the event, Théophile Nkundingabo, Headteacher of G.S Nyirarukobwa, said protecting children online can no longer be left to schools or parents acting in isolation. He warned that poorly managed digital spaces pose real risks to children and young people.

“The vision of a safe and secure internet requires everyone to think twice about how digital spaces are used,” Nkundingabo said, noting that when the internet is not properly safeguarded, it can cause significant harm to children.

He stressed that promoting responsible internet use and shared accountability is key to keeping online platforms empowering rather than harmful.

Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter cautioned parents against exposing children to online risks through careless device use. He urged families to clearly differentiate how digital devices are used by adults and children.

“Giving a child a phone just to stop them from crying is not the right approach,” Mfitumukiza said, warning that unsafe digital practices can negatively affect children’s behaviour and wellbeing.

He added that privacy and security awareness should guide how individuals interact online, noting that safer digital spaces begin with responsible personal choices.

Students played a central role in the commemoration through a creative theatre performance by members of the Safer Internet Club at G.S Nyirarukobwa, demonstrating common online risks and practical ways to stay safe. Speaking on behalf of the club, a student representative said the initiative has empowered learners to take ownership of their digital behaviour.

“Through the Safer Internet Club, we have learned how to protect ourselves online and help our friends do the same,” the student said, adding that online safety is shaped by everyday choices made both at school and at home.

The initiative also drew praise from fellow educators. A director of education from G.S Cyeru Catholique announced plans to establish a Safer Internet Club at their school, describing it as a commitment to guide learners in responsible digital use, protect privacy, and promote peer-to-peer awareness on online safety.

From a law enforcement perspective, Superintendent of Police Margaret Nyiraneza, Bugesera District Community Policing Officer, warned that both children and parents are increasingly targeted by online scams and digital abuse. She urged parents and teachers to maintain open communication with children, avoid sharing sensitive information such as phone and mobile money passwords, and remain vigilant.

Nyiraneza shared real-life cases from the community, illustrating how limited awareness can expose families to serious online risks and financial loss.

Parents who attended the event welcomed the awareness campaign, describing it as timely and necessary. One parent said the discussions highlighted how easily online dangers can be overlooked at home.

“As parents, we sometimes underestimate the risks our children face online,” the parent said, stressing that active monitoring and open conversations with children are essential. “Keeping children safe on the internet is a responsibility we must take seriously, not leave to schools alone.”

Reinforcing the education sector’s position, Albert Niyigena, Bugesera District Education Officer in charge of nursery, primary, and adult literacy, urged children to use the internet for positive and educational purposes.

“Children must pay attention, avoid online traps, and use the internet to enhance their learning,” Niyigena said, adding that responsible use of digital tools today will help shape a safer and more productive future for Rwanda.

The Safer Internet Day 2026 commemoration in Bugesera highlighted the growing recognition that online safety requires coordinated action. Hosted by G.S Nyirarukobwa, the event emphasized how schools, families, authorities, and students themselves can work together to ensure the internet remains a safe, secure, and empowering space for children.

                                       
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