Protect children from cyber bullying-Minister

Government has asked parents and all stakeholders to ensure that children are protected in cyber bullying in the current digital era.

Minister of Gender, Children and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza made the sentiments during the commemorations of the day of African Child at Mbera Primary School in Balaka district.

The minister pleaded with all duty bearers to make sure that children are benefitting from digital technology for the betterment of their education.

She added that government has put in place regulations that prohibit the misuse of digital technology with a stiff penalty of K10 Million.

Save the Children Operations Manager Frank Mwafulirwa concurred with the minister saying it is worrisome to note that children in the country are not protected from cyber-crimes in different forms.

He has therefore pleaded with law enforcers to take action on perpetrators who infringe on the rights of children in as far as cyber bullying is concerned.

The Inspector General of Police Merlyne Yolamu who was present at the function assured the audience that her office is ready to make sure that children are protected.

Speaker for Children Parliament in Neno district Triphonia Kaduya said digital technology has the potential of improving the performance of children at schools.

Kaduya however asked government to introduce computer studies in primary schools as there are a number of children who do not know how to use a computer or a phone.

This year’s commemoration was observed under the theme “The rights of a child in a digital environment”.