Promoting Responsible Internet Usage: ISOC Rwanda Celebrates Safer Internet Day 2024

Elias Hakizimana Feb 6, 2024Feb 6, 2024 0 Comments

By Elias Hakizimana.

In Bugesera District, Rwanda, the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter (ISOC Rwanda) has commenced the celebration of Safer Internet Day (SID) 2024, focusing on advocating for responsible Internet usage.

This annual event aims to raise awareness about the importance of creating a safer and more constructive online environment where individuals are empowered to utilize the Internet responsibly, respectfully, critically, and creatively.

The event’s inauguration took place at G.S Nyirarukobwa, one of ISOC Rwanda’s esteemed partner schools.

The theme for this year, “Promoting personal accountability for a constructive Internet atmosphere,” underscores the individual’s role in fostering a positive online environment conducive to children’s learning and innovation. It stresses the significance of ensuring a secure and reliable internet for children, emphasizing existing laws and policies for online protection and calling for collective efforts to safeguard children’s online safety.

***Authorities, parents and caregivers convene at G.S Nyirarukobwa in Ntarama sector, Bugesera district, to mark the commencement of Safer Internet Day festivities in 2024.***

Theophile Nkundingabo, Headteacher of G.S Nyirarukobwa, expressed the profound significance of the event for the school and the broader community.

He remarked, “Safer Internet Day 2024 marks a proud moment for our school and reflects the importance of digital technology in both our educational journey and the broader community.”

Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, highlighted the event’s significance as an opportunity to advocate for responsible Internet usage.

He emphasized the historical significance of marking the 21st celebration of Safer Internet Day, stressing the pivotal role of the Internet and the need for its responsible use to ensure safety during online interactions within communities.

“As we mark the 21st Safer Internet Day, it is crucial to grasp its historical significance and rally for safer online practices within our communities,” Mfitumukiza emphasized.

***Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter, addressing participants during the celebration of Safer Internet Day 2024 at G.S Nyirarukobwa***

Mfitumukiza also addressed the challenges children face with peer-influenced information, particularly concerning social media’s impact on their lives and future careers.

He reiterated ISOC Rwanda’s commitment to elevating awareness about the critical need for a safer and more constructive internet environment.

“Each year, we organize Safer Internet Day celebrations in our partner schools to elevate awareness about the critical need for a safer and more constructive Internet environment,” he elucidated.

Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) in Bugesera district shed light on the prevalence of cybercrimes in the district, with a focus on mobile transactions. They stressed the need for vigilance, particularly among students and parents, cautioning against tactics used by hackers to steal passwords and perpetrate financial theft.

RIB emphasized the importance of proactive measures and informed decision-making in safeguarding against cyber threats and promoting responsible internet usage.

Jacques Gashumba, Director of Education in Bugesera District, commended ISOC Rwanda and its dedicated staff for their initiative in partnering with schools in the district.

He noted the significant advancements witnessed in education and teaching, as well as the fostering of digital literacy within the community since the commencement of the project.

Highlighting the impact of social media on education, Gashumba revealed that over 1200 children who had dropped out of school were enticed back this year, largely due to negative influences on platforms like Facebook and the internet.

He advised students to steer clear of such technologies that may jeopardize their academic pursuits.

Gashumba also celebrated the achievements of students and a teacher during the CID 2024 event at G.S Nyirarukobwa, recognizing their innovative projects aimed at promoting safer internet usage, contributing to a more secure online environment for all.

The Safer Internet event for this year is scheduled to occur between February 6th and February 24th, 2024, across ISOC Rwanda Partner schools, signifying a collective effort towards empowering Rwanda’s digital generation and ensuring a safer online experience for all stakeholders.