Awareness and education --- Since the use of technology has become an integral aspect in the daily lives of children, particularly as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, maybe a similar strategy should be adopted as is suggested for adults in order to eliminate risk and vulnerability, that is, education and awareness.

While, parents/guardians, governments, educators and other stakeholders do have a responsibility to protect children from harm both online and offline, the safe use of technology should be included in the school curriculum, which focuses on educating children on the risks and harmful aspects associated with the use of technology in accordance with their evolving capacity (age appropriate).

Many schools do include information technology in their curriculum in my country. However, those classes are aimed at enhancing skills with regards to the use of ICTs and do not necessarily educate or raise awareness in respect of its associated risks.

Source author: Devita Abraham abrahamd@foreign.gov.tt