Safer internet day: promoting a digital future for all
By Ella-Betty Chapoto /
Safer Internet Day (SID) is a global initiative celebrated annually on 11 February, uniting stakeholders from various sectors to raise awareness on online issues, promote a safer and responsible digital world.
This year’s theme, “Together for a Better Internet”, calls on individuals, businesses, governments, and communities to collaborate in creating safer online space, particularly for children and young people.
As Namibia’s telecommunications regulator, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is dedicated to fostering a safe and empowering digital environment.
Online safety has become a shared responsibility, and CRAN, through its Child Online Protection (COP) initiatives, continues to educate children, parents, and educators on best practices for online safety.
SID emphasises the importance of educating children on responsible internet use, equipping them with digital literacy skills, and empowering them to navigate the online world securely.
Young people today face numerous online risks, such as cyberbullying exposure to harmful content and online predators. SID raises awareness about these dangers while promoting measures to ensure a secure online environment.
Beyond safety, this initiative also fosters positive digital engagement, encouraging kindness, respect, and responsibility in online interactions, and advocating for a culture where the internet is used to uplift and empower.
Another key focus area is digital literacy, specifically for children and teenagers. Digital literacy ensures that children and teenagers are equipped with the knowledge to protect their personal data, navigate privacy settings, and recognise online threats such as scams and misinformation.
Digital literacy enables users to make informed choices and engage meaningfully in online space.
Moreover, CRAN encourages all stakeholders to take an active role in making the internet a safer and more inclusive space.
Through collective efforts of educating children, reporting harmful content, or advocating for responsible digital behaviour, every action counts in building a better online future.
As Namibia joins the global celebration, we are reminded that the responsibility of online safety belongs to all of us, and we play our role in shaping a safer internet for current and future generations
– Ms. Ella-Betty Chapoto is the Practitioner for Consumer Relations and Advocacy
Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN).
