At NetFella, our mission has always been to empower communities through innovative digital solutions, and our involvement in the SAFER INTERNET FORUM 2024 was a natural extension of that commitment. Co-organizing this pivotal event with the Internet Society Chapter Rwanda was not just an opportunity but a responsibility we embraced wholeheartedly.
Building a Safer Digital Future
The SAFER INTERNET FORUM 2024, held at the Grand Legacy Hotel on June 27th, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, from government bodies to educational institutions, to address the growing concerns around online safety. For us at NetFella, this forum was more than a conference; it was a call to action to ensure that the digital space remains a secure and enriching environment for everyone, especially the youth.
Empowering Voices, Sharing Stories
One of the most inspiring moments of the day was hearing from Hoziana, a student from Nyirarukobwa High School. Her testimony about how the ICT room provided by the Internet Society helped her and her peers better understand technology was a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. However, her candid discussion of the challenges—such as the high cost of internet access and limited resources—highlighted the work that still needs to be done. Her recommendations for more ICT rooms and increased access time resonated deeply with us and underscored the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure.
Collaborative Efforts in Education
Jack, the Head of Education from Bugesera District, spoke on how ISOC’s ICT training for teachers has accelerated school operations and benefited the wider community. His insights into how digital tools have streamlined processes like report drafting were a testament to the tangible impacts of such initiatives. At NetFella, we are proud to be part of efforts that not only enhance educational outcomes but also contribute to community development.
Online Safety: A Shared Responsibility
Grace, the CEO of RICTA, delivered crucial advice on how parents can safeguard their children in the digital world. Her practical tips—ranging from open communication to the use of parental controls—echo the ethos of NetFella’s own approach to online safety. We believe that creating a safer internet is a collective responsibility, one that involves not just parents and educators, but also companies like ours that shape the digital landscape.
Simplifying the Complex: Internet and Its Impacts
David Kanamugire, CEO of NCSA, simplified the concept of the internet, making it accessible to all. His analogy comparing the internet to the evolution of physical infrastructure struck a chord with many. Just as roads brought both convenience and risks, the internet has transformed our world with similar dualities. David’s message about mindful consumption and the potential dangers of digital content was a powerful reminder of the mental health impacts associated with internet use, especially among the youth.
Digital Footprints: Awareness and Precaution
Robert Ford’s insights on digital footprints reinforced a critical aspect of our digital lives—what we share online stays online. His discussion on the potential future consequences of seemingly harmless online posts served as a wake-up call for all of us. At NetFella, we are committed to raising awareness about the long-term implications of our digital actions, and Robert’s talk perfectly aligned with this mission.
A Panel of Insights
The panel discussion, featuring experts from RIB, MINICT, RICTA, and UNICEF, brought a wealth of knowledge and perspectives on online safety. Denyse from UNICEF emphasized the importance of parents being present and leading by example. Akilimali from RIB highlighted the underreporting of online violence, while Maurice from MINICT assured us of the protective intent behind the laws governing digital spaces. Their collective insights provided a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and solutions in creating a safer internet environment.
Moving Forward: Practical Implementation
As the event drew to a close, our own Sadrah Irasubiza summarized the key takeaways, stressing the importance of translating these discussions into actionable steps. At NetFella, we are dedicated to ensuring that the strategies and solutions discussed at the SAFER INTERNET FORUM 2024 are implemented to create tangible changes in our communities.
Conclusion
The SAFER INTERNET FORUM 2024 was a resounding success, not only in terms of the conversations it sparked but also in the commitments it galvanized. For NetFella, this event was a reminder of our role in shaping a safer digital future. We are proud to have co-organized this forum and are more motivated than ever to continue our work in making the internet a safer, more inclusive space for everyone.
Together, we can build a digital world that is as safe as it is innovative. Let’s keep the conversation going and the actions flowing.
