On Friday, 23 February 2024, the National Cyber Security Authority took part in the Safer Internet Day (SID) 2024 celebrations, organized by Internet Society (ISOC) Rwanda Chapter, in Bugesera District. The Internet Society (ISOC) Rwanda Chapter is a non-governmental organization created to further the cause of achieving an open and free internet.

The day was observed through online safety awareness campaigns that took place at two schools namely, Ecole Primaire Kayovu (Gashora Sector) and Groupe Scolaire Ste Tite Butereri (Ruhuha Sector) in Bugesera District. The aim of these activities was to empower community members to use the internet responsibly and harmonize efforts among different organizations to ensure child online safety.

At EP Kayovu, the theme of the day was “Together for a Better Internet’. The discussions focused on inspiring positive change on the internet, highlighting online safety issues and encouraging everyone - including children and young people, parents and caregivers, teachers and educators, policymakers and others - to join together to create a safer internet for all.

At GS Buteteri, the theme of the day was “Safer Internet, Safer Generations”, which explored the enablers of a secure and trustworthy internet by placing significant emphasis on digital rights closely aligned with privacy and data security. The theme also highlighted the need for positive online content for children.

At both schools, the schools’ respective Safer Internet Clubs demonstrated their understanding of online safety skills through performances. Following the performances, the ISOC Rwanda leadership team, NCSA, RIB, sector authorities, teachers and students, discussed best practices to protect children online.

Students were cautioned against talking to strangers online, sharing personal information like their full name, current location or home address, allowing people to take images and video of them without consent and were also encouraged to report to their parents and teachers of any signs of cyber bullying or harassment online. The students were also encouraged to use the internet wisely, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.