Partner Organizations of EdWill Celebrate Safer Internet Day in Kathmandu

Kathmandu: Partner organizations of EdWill celebrated Safer Internet Day in Kathmandu with various programs. During an event organized by CWIN Nepal, stakeholders stated that risks have increased alongside the growing use of internet technology. They pointed out the need to use various social media platforms correctly.

At the program, Durga Prasad Chalise from the Child Protection Branch of the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens stated that the government has been doing significant work for the rights of children. Noting that no one can remain untouched by the expansion of technology, he emphasized the need to be vigilant regarding its safe use. 

He mentioned that not only children but parents are also being affected by internet use. He added that the ministry has been conducting several programs for children in coordination with various organizations.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Nabin Aryal, head of the Nepal Police Cyber Bureau, stated that cyber-related incidents are increasing due to the growing use of online technology. He noted that the rising use of social media among children has led to an increase in cyber incidents. He highlighted the need for various awareness programs regarding social media to protect children from cyber security threats.

Indira Devi Dhakal, Member Secretary of the National Child Rights Council under the Ministry of Women, Children, and Senior Citizens, mentioned that social media and AI have provided learning opportunities for individuals. 

She expressed the view that while technology offers benefits, it also presents serious risks and can spread misinformation, necessitating safety measures. She stated that it is necessary to formulate digital policies for online safety.

Madhav Pradhan, Chairperson of CWIN Nepal, shared that their strategy involves conducting awareness programs about cyber security across the country in the coming days. He mentioned that while 60 children participated in the program this year, their goal is to involve more than a hundred children in such programs next year.

Rajkumar Maharjan, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Information Technology and Communication; Kumar Bhattarai, Executive Director of CWIN; and Nita Shrestha, Nepal representative of DTH Netherlands, among others, shared their views during the event. 

An awareness play regarding internet safety was also presented. The program was facilitated by Madhav Lohani, Program Director of CWIN Nepal.