Online child safety demands a collective effort

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OPINION

By Isaac Mwesigwa

The Internet has become an integral part of modern education and social interaction. From online classes to research and entertainment, children today are more connected than ever before.

While this connectivity offers immense opportunities, it also exposes them to significant risks, cyberbullying, inappropriate content, online predators and identity theft. As parents and educators in Uganda, we must take deliberate steps to safeguard our children online.

Uganda’s Internet penetration has grown rapidly, with affordable smartphones and data bundles making access easier. Platforms like WhatsApp, TikTok and Facebook dominate among young users. Unfortunately, this accessibility comes with challenges: limited parental digital literacy, inadequate cyber law enforcement, and cultural gaps in discussing online safety. Many parents assume that giving a child a smartphone is harmless, yet without guidance, it can become a gateway to harm. Here is how we can ensure child safety online.

Digital literacy at home

Parents must educate themselves first. Understanding basic Internet safety concepts such as privacy settings, secure passwords and recognising scams is essential.

For example, a parent who knows how to activate parental controls on YouTube can prevent their child from accessing harmful videos. Schools can complement this by organising workshops for parents on safe internet practices.

Set clear rules and boundaries

Establishing household rules for Internet use is critical. For instance:

• Screen time limits: Allowing two hours of supervised internet use daily
• Device-free zones: No phones during family meals or bedtime
• Approved apps only: Children should install apps with parental consent.

In Uganda, many homes share devices, and these rules help maintain accountability. A parent can keep the family phone in a common area to discourage secretive browsing.

Use parental control tools

Technology offers solutions like Google Family Link, which allow parents to monitor app usage and block harmful sites. For example, a parent can use these tools to restrict access to adult content or gambling sites, which are increasingly advertised online. Telecom companies like MTN Uganda also provide child-friendly data packages — an option worth exploring.

Teach responsible social media use

Social media is where most risks occur. Children should learn:

• Never share personal details like your home address or school name
• Avoid chatting with strangers, even if they seem friendly
• Report suspicious behaviour to a trusted adult

Promote open communication

Children often hide online problems for fear of punishment. Create an environment where they feel safe to talk. If a child encounters cyberbullying on WhatsApp, they should know they can report it without being scolded. Schools can reinforce this by having counsellors trained in digital safety.

Leverage school partnerships

Schools play a vital role in internet safety. At Rise and Shine High School, we integrate digital citizenship into our curriculum, teaching students about ethical online behaviour and privacy. We also collaborate with organisations like the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to provide resources on cyber safety.

Challenges and cultural considerations

Ugandan parents often prioritise academic success over digital safety, assuming that internet use is purely educational. However, platforms like TikTok and Instagram are highly addictive and can expose children to harmful trends. Additionally, discussing topics like online predators may feel uncomfortable in conservative households. Overcoming these barriers requires community sensitisation and government support through awareness campaigns.

The internet is a powerful tool, but without guidance, it can become a threat to our children’s well-being. As parents and educators in Uganda, we must embrace a proactive approach—combining digital literacy, clear rules, parental controls, and open communication. By working together, we can ensure that our children enjoy the benefits of technology while staying safe.

The writer is a parent and school Director, Rise and Shine High School, Ntinda