As part of efforts to address the growing threat of online exploitation among children, a non-profit organization, Pristine SACC Education and Technology Initiative, has launched a campaign aimed at educating students and teachers about the dangers of online material. child sexual abuse (CSAM).
In a statement, the organization's executive director, Umar Aisha, said the Internet has become an integral part of the lives of young people, adding that the risks associated with digital spaces have grown exponentially, which influenced the launch of the CSAM campaign.
“Recognising the urgent need for intervention, Pristine SACC launched a comprehensive program designed to equip students with knowledge and tools to safely navigate the online world.
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“The campaign focused on critical issues such as emotional catfishing, online blackmail and exposure to harmful content, while empowering educators to become frontline advocates for digital safety,” he said.
Aisha said since the campaign was launched last November, 10 senior secondary schools in Ilorin, Kwara State had been reached, adding that more than 500 students had directly participated in interactive workshops and knowledge sharing sessions.
“These workshops, which are ongoing, address real-life scenarios and provide students with practical skills to identify and respond to online threats.
“The team also distributed over 500 CSAM visual guides, which we specially designed to be age-appropriate, engaging and informative.
“The 20+ page materials simplify complex topics, breaking them down into digestible sections that cover everything from identifying suspicious online behavior to understanding consent and reporting abuse.
“The campaign also leverages social media promotion as an essential tool to expand its reach,” he revealed.
The statement also quoted Hassan Shuaib, program director of the organization, as saying that the CSAM initiative sought to create a culture of awareness and responsibility, adding that Pristine SACC was committed to training educators and students, and ensuring that schools have structures sustainable solutions to address digital security. concerns.
“The campaign will incorporate the experience of an Educational Psychologist, who will advise students for a year, offering them emotional and psychological support as they navigate digital spaces.
“This long-term mentorship will ensure that the impact of the program extends beyond the initial workshops and distribution of materials.
“As the CSAM campaign continues to gain momentum, we call on stakeholders, government agencies, parents and the public to come together to support this noble cause.
“By working together, we can ensure that every child has the knowledge, confidence and tools necessary to thrive in the digital world without fear of exploitation.”
Amina Adeyemi, a secondary school student from one of the participating schools, shared her opinion on the initiative:
“Before this training, I didn't know how to recognize online predators or what to do if someone tried to blackmail me online. Now I feel safer and aware of how to protect myself.”
Similarly, Ms. Aisha Tolowoye, a school administrator from one of the participating schools, who attended one of the workshops, expressed her gratitude and said: “This program has opened my eyes to the digital risks that our students all face. the days.
“With the training and materials provided, I now feel better prepared to guide and protect our students.”
Newslodge