Youth urged to think before posting online

Victoria Immanuel

ONGWEDIVA – Young people have been urged to think carefully before posting on social media, as one post can damage a person’s reputation and affect future opportunities.

Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus highlighted the importance of responsible social media use during Youth Day at the 9th National ICT Summit in Ongwediva on Thursday.

“I advised young people to use social media responsibly, potential employers may scrutinise past posts, which could impact their future opportunities,” she said. Giving example, a young person who shares an embarrassing video of a friend may think it is funny, but the video could spread beyond their circle and cause the friend distress.

“Social media does not forget. Even if the post is deleted, someone may already have saved or shared it,” she said.

She added that digital platforms should be used to build the nation rather than divide it.

Maria Taapopi, a young woman attending the summit, supports the message that young people should use social media responsibly and consider how their posts affect others.

“Social media can be a powerful tool for learning, sharing opportunities and inspiring others. Young people should think before they post and use these platforms to spread positivity rather than hurt others,” Taapopi said.

Young people can use social media to promote their talents, businesses and skills while respecting the privacy of others. They should also avoid spreading information they have not verified.

The Namibia Cybersecurity Incident Response Team has warned that cyberbullying can include harmful rumours, threatening messages, fake accounts and the sharing of private pictures without permission.

“Young people can improve their online safety by using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding suspicious links and keeping personal information private,” they said.

They have advised that those experiencing cyberbullying should save evidence, block and report offenders, and seek help from trusted adults or the relevant authorities.

The Namibia Cybersecurity Incident Response Team has warned about the harm caused by cyberbullying, including threatening messages, harmful rumours and the unauthorised sharing of private pictures.

“Digital platforms should be used to build the nation rather than divide it,” Theofelus said during an earlier event on the ethical use of social media,” the team added.

The team has encouraged young people to use social media positively to promote their talents, businesses and skills, share educational information and connect with opportunities.

Adding that responsible online behaviour can help create safer digital spaces where people can express themselves without fear of harassment or humiliation. 

-vkaapanda@nepc.com.na

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