State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj has stated that young people should be prepared for the future through safe and responsible technology use rather than being kept away from digital tools out of fear.
The minister made the comments as chief guest at a national learning exchange on digital gender norms organised by BBC Media Action at a hotel in the capital.
Addressing representatives from international organisations and educational institutions, Bobby Hajjaj noted that technological progress is an ongoing process that requires active capacity building rather than rejection.
Reflecting on past events, the state minister highlighted that attempts to shut down the internet during the July mass uprising in 2024 failed to silence public communication, demonstrating that digital platforms are now an integral part of everyday life.
He warned that a clear gap has opened between rapid technological advancement and traditional social values, requiring coordinated action across families, schools, and state institutions.
He urged schools and communities to train adolescents in online safety, verification of information, and digital ethics to combat rising online harms.
The minister expressed concern over the spread of fake images, manipulated videos, character assassination, and online harassment, noting that female politicians, women, and young girls suffer the worst impact.
To tackle these issues, the government plans to enforce regulations that balance personal freedom with online safety, ensuring digital platforms remain accountable to users.
Hajjaj is incorporating digital safety, ethical values, life skills, and civic responsibility directly into the primary school curriculum.
Plans are underway to roll out interactive digital classrooms, distribute electronic tablets to teaching staff, and eventually provide learning devices to young pupils.
The government is also strengthening community participation by forming local guardian committees to oversee school meals and broaden parental involvement across primary institutions.
He invited non-governmental organisations and international development partners to present proven learning models, stating that the ministry maintains an open-door policy for effective educational initiatives.
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