Secretary, Department of Social Welfare, Government of Nagaland, Martha R Ritse, addressing the state level workshop on cyber safety and safety and security of children in school at Hotel Japfü, Kohima on March 22. (Morung photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | March 23
Secretary, Department of Social Welfare, Government of Nagaland, Martha R Ritse, today said that despite internet's wide array of opportunities for learning, creativity and connection, it is also increasingly posing significant risks to children's safety and well-being.
Addressing the inaugural function of the one day state level workshop on cyber safety and safety and security of children in school in Kohima today at Hotel Japfü, Kohima, Ritse mentioned persisting threats including cyber bullying, online predators, inappropriate contents and scams have lasting and profound effect on children's mental, emotional and physical well-being if left unchecked.
In this regard, the Secretary underscored that it is imperative for stakeholders to take proactive steps to safeguard children's online experience. Ritse said it was a collective responsibility of parents, educators, caregivers and members of society to ensure that our children can navigate the online world safely and confidently.
"They must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and protect themselves from potential dangers lurking in cyberspace," Ritse underscored further adding that it was necessary to have stronger mechanisms in place to support, protect educate and empower children to make smart choices, seek help when needed and ensure that they are exposed to age appropriate contents and interactions.
Together as a community, she called upon the stakeholders to create more awareness in the grassroots to enable the children to thrive and grow in a more secure online environment further encouraging them to recommit themselves to the cause of children's safety both online and offline.
Member, NSCPCR, Akumla Longchari in the opening remarks said ensuring safety and security of children is not just a moral imperative, but an obligation that transcends all boundaries.
"In today's rapidly evolving world, where advancements in technology and societal changes introduce new challenges, safeguarding our children has become more complex than ever before. From online threats to physical dangers, our children are exposed to a myriad of risks that demand our unwavering attention and action," she pointed out.
Longchari reminded that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration, cooperation, and collective effort from all sectors of society - be it government agencies, educational institutions, community organizations, or individuals.
"Today's gathering serves as a platform for us to exchange ideas, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to address the multifaceted challenges surrounding child safety and security. Together, let us pledge to be advocates for change, champions for our children, and guardians of their well-being," she further added.
Alun Hangsing, Chairman, NSCPCR also addressed the gathering.
During the technical session, NCPCR, Resource Person, Advocate Somashree Das, Expert, spoke on cyber security and security of children and Additional SP, Cyber Crime, PHQ, Nagaland, presented on cyber safety and security pertaining to Nagaland.
The workshop was organized by National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in collaboration with Nagaland State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NSCPCR).
