Ndukwe, Others Make Case for Children Online Safety

The use of ICT innovations by children in the new world of freedom for empowerment has in different ways influenced and changed roles and processes of child development and experts have made the call for child protection in the online environment.

Ernest Ndukwe, chairman Open Media said that ICT is an essential infrastructure in the knowledge economy and children must gain competence in safe and efficient use of ICTs.

Speaking as the special guest of honour at the maiden Stakeholders’ Tech4D Forum organized by Women in Technology in Nigeria (Witin), themed ‘ICT and Child Development,’ Ndukwe said children are fast learners and that it was possible for them to gain computer skills without guidance.
 
He added that “If introduced early, ICT can become an integral part of making children experts in the field of ICT.”

Globally, he said, “ICT has revolutionized every aspect of human endeavour and it is a proven universal tool for sustainable development, and added that with “pivotal infrastructure components such as efficient and reliable power supply, good government sector policy and rapid development in ICT, ICT will move the country forward.”

Eugene Juwah, EVC, NCC represented by Henry Ikemadu, head, Policy Economic Analysis and Research, NCC urged parents to monitor their children’s use of the internet against cyber predators, bullying and identity theft.

He noted that the internet is not exclusive and anyone can be on the internet, stating that children and youth are the active online participants.

Mrs. Veronica Adeyemo, acting director, ICT, Federal Ministry of Information charged parents to have a good understanding of ICT and its importance to early child development and to guide the child according in the online environment in order for them not to be lost in the wild wild west.

Also speaking at the event, Chris Uwaje, president, Institute of Software Practitioners of Nigeria (Ispon) said parents have a lot of responsibilities in protecting children online and that if parents know how the computer works, the better they can protect the child.

Susan Schorr, head, Special Initiative Division at the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) speaking on Girls in ICT Day, said girls need to develop ICT skills early in life and that ICT can be used in a myriad of ways to empower women and girls.

The Girls in ICT Day is an initiative of the ITU aimed at increasing the number of women in ICT careers and to leverage social and economic empowerment of women and girls.