A new programme ‘Child Digital Safety’ has been launched by the UAE government to raise awareness among children about online threats; and to educate them on how to use the internet in a constructive manner. The programme also aims to educate parents about the possible internet abuses, so they could monitor their children’s exposure to websites and social networking platforms.
This initiative consists of 4 main sub-initiatives, including Interactive Children’s Camp, where 5 to 18-year-olds can learn how to safely use the internet and social media, Digital Wellbeing Portal, to provide tools and information to help parents face the challenges of the digital world, Training Workshops, where parents and teachers can be trained to address digital challenges and threats, and a Support Platform to answer urgent queries from parents regarding digital safety.
A joint effort between the Ministry of Interior and the National Programme for Happiness and Wellbeing was launched on UAE Children’s Day on Friday, 15 March.
His Highness Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior said, “The UAE leads the world in terms of internet and smartphone penetration and this calls for developing a sophisticated digital safety net for our children.”
Ohoud bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Happiness and Wellbeing, Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office, said, “To ensure safe and secure access to the internet and smart applications, all while preventing online abuse, individuals need to be made aware of these threats and well equipped to address them. UAE Government is working diligently to improve online experiences, train individuals to adopt a balanced approach towards the digital world, and help establish a positive digital citizenship model, rooted in developing healthy relationships with technology and digital platforms, and opting for positive online content.