Stakeholders Call for a Collective Responsibility to Ensure Children’s Online Safety

By Elias Hakizimana.

The concept of ensuring children’s safety online is not just a parental duty but a collective responsibility shared by the entire community. As the internet becomes an integral part of our daily lives, safeguarding young users from online harms is increasingly critical.

This notion was at the heart of the recent Rwanda Safer Internet Forum 2024, organized by the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter (ISOC Rwanda).

Held in Kigali on June 27, 2024, the event brought together policymakers, educators, industry leaders, cybersecurity experts, parents, and young internet users under the theme “Empowering Families to Create a Safer Internet for Children.”

The forum emphasized the urgent need to protect children against online harms and foster a safer online environment for the younger generation.

Emmanuel Mfitumukiza, Chairperson of ISOC Rwanda, highlighted the dual nature of the internet, noting that while it offers vast opportunities for learning, communication, and innovation, it also presents significant challenges in safeguarding the privacy and security of children.

“Preparing children from a young age equips them with sufficient knowledge to use technology properly and prepares them for their future as responsible citizens,” said Mfitumukiza.

The forum serves as an open platform for dialogue on child online safety, aiming to raise awareness, share best practices, and identify collaborative initiatives to ensure a secure online environment for children.

Mfitumukiza emphasizes the importance of public education on safe internet usage through awareness campaigns and the establishment of school clubs that teach youth how to use the internet responsibly. The Safer Internet Clubs, operational in four schools in Bugesera District, are set to expand nationwide.

A 2012 UNICEF report titled ‘Child Safety Online’ revealed alarming statistics: one-third of children in 30 countries reported experiencing online harassment, leading some to drop out of school. Nearly 80% of children in 25 countries were at risk of sexual exploitation online. These findings underline the urgent need for proactive measures to protect children online

Hosiana Irizabimbuto, a 17-year-old student and member of the Safer Internet Club in Bugesera District, G.S Nyirarukobwa, shared her experience.

Hosiana Irizabimbuto, a 17-year-old senior 3 student at G.S Nyirarukobwa in Bugesera District and a member of the Safer Internet Club, shared her experience:

“Before the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter brought us together in the Safer Internet Club, it was very difficult for me to revise my studies. We often had to ask the teacher, who sometimes didn’t have time. The internet is expensive, and some parents have a wrong view of internet usage and don’t understand its meaning. Our request is to increase technology equipment and to ensure internet protection by punishing those who misuse the internet to set an example for others.” Says Irizabimbuto.

Her colleague, Patrick Giramahoro, also expressed the positive impact of the Safer Internet Club: “Now I use the internet for search engines while learning online. I know the bad and good online, and I can teach other children all about safe internet use.” He said.

David Kanamugire, CEO of the National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA), praised the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter for their initiative. He relates the internet to a community tool that requires security measures and policies to prevent harm, much like road safety regulations prevent traffic accidents.

Robert N. Ford, Senior Technical & Policy Advisor at Telecommunications Management Group, stressed the importance of responsible internet use, especially for protecting children from online risks such as grooming and harmful content.

“It’s crucial for parents and guardians to monitor and guide children’s internet access for their safety,” Ford said.

Grace Ingabire, CEO of RICTA Rwanda, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the role of families in protecting children online.

“By celebrating the positive power of the internet, we are asking parents, caregivers, teachers, government, policymakers, and the wider online safety industry to take time to listen to children and young people and make positive change together.” Ingabire urged.

Jacques Gashumba, Director of Education in Bugesera District, expressed gratitude for the Internet Society Rwanda Chapter’s initiatives.

“Thanks to their efforts, some schools have now added computer science to their curriculum, and teachers have received digital literacy training to better support students in their research.” Gashumba said.

theinspirerpublications@gmail.com