The Asco Foundation, in collaboration with Datec (Fiji) Pte Ltd, has launched a program focused on the online safety of children. The initiative commenced last month with a visit to Deenbandhoo Memorial School in Suva. Named “Think Before You Click,” the program aims to enhance cybersecurity awareness among primary school students, focusing on the significance of online safety and responsible digital behavior.
William Raione, assistant headteacher at Deenbandhoo Memorial School, emphasized the program’s relevance considering the increasing internet access among children. He stated, “Most children have access to the Internet, and they need cyber knowledge and skills to be safe online,” highlighting the workshop’s role in teaching students how to protect their accounts and behave responsibly on the internet.
Raione also pointed out the concerning rise of cyberbullying, which can have severe consequences if children do not communicate their experiences with adults. He welcomed the initiative, believing it could significantly help in preventing such issues.
The program is aimed at students in grades 6, 7, and 8, who are at an ideal age to understand the importance of cybersecurity. It encourages students to share their newfound knowledge with family and friends, fostering a broader community impact.
Ronald Kumar, CEO of Asco Motors and the project’s champion, stressed the initiative’s long-term vision. “We want students to take what they’ve learned at home and spread the word. The goal is for this knowledge to proliferate, just like cyber-attacks, to increase awareness of online safety throughout Fiji,” Kumar stated. He believes that by instilling these values at a young age, students will learn to navigate the digital landscape safely.
The Asco Foundation has invested $20,000 in the initiative, which aims to reach ten schools this year, with plans for further outreach. The visit to Deenbandhoo Memorial School marks the beginning of this vital effort, with more schools in the Suva and Nausori areas scheduled to be visited in the upcoming months.
The impact of the program is already evident among the students at Deenbandhoo. Raione noted, “The students have learned a lot from this program, and it’s information they’ll take back to their families.” He expressed confidence that this initiative would help mitigate cyber risks within the community.
The campaign underscores the Asco Foundation’s dedication to community development and addresses the pressing issue of cybersecurity for Fiji’s youth. As the digital environment continues to grow, initiatives like this are essential to ensure that the younger generation is prepared to tackle online safety challenges effectively.