On February 4, 2024, a full day “Safe Internet Conference” was held at the Jessore Software Technology Park across two auditoriums, supported by the National Cyber Security Agency, Cyber Teens Foundation, and UNDP. The event was aimed at students, parents, and teachers, focusing on promoting safety and security in the digital world. The primary objective was to encourage safe internet use. To address this goal effectively, two distinct sessions were conducted: one for students and another for teachers and parents.
During the student session, discussions covered various aspects of safe internet usage. Students learned about:
- The importance of safe internet practices and ways to maintain online security
- Methods to stay safe while using online devices and platforms
- The nature of cyberbullying and harassment, along with actions students can take to prevent and counter these issues
- Techniques to verify information and avoid spreading false information or rumors
- Strategies to prevent online sexual exploitation and protect oneself
- How to seek help if they experience cyberbullying, and the support available from Cyber Teens Foundation
- How to seek help if they experience cyberbullying, and the support available from Cyber Teens Foundation
In the session for teachers and parents, the focus was on maintaining a secure online environment for children. Topics included:
- Steps parents can take to enhance the safety of their children’s online experience
- The use of parental control apps
- The importance of safe internet practices and online security measures
- Understanding cyberbullying and harassment and ways they can help prevent these issues
- Methods for identifying and avoiding misinformation
- Strategies to prevent online sexual exploitation
- The concept of "smart parenting" and its importance in today’s digital landscape
- How to support children if they experience cyberbullying, and the assistance provided by Cyber Teens Foundation
High-ranking officials from the ICT Division under the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of the Government of Bangladesh attended as special guests and speakers. Additionally, International Children’s Peace Prize winner Mr. Sadat Rahman, founder of Cyber Teens, and Amir Hamza Jihad, founder of Mekateam and a child rights activist promoting social change in Bangladesh, participated as key speakers. Over 200 parents and teachers, 400 students attended and according to the participants, conferences like this can play an effective role in promoting a safer internet environment for everyone.