The Department of Communications & Digital Technologies. in partnership with the South African Police Service, Siyafunda, Ukusakwami and Cisco, Bryanston conducted an online safely awareness training program for women focusing on cyber security, cyberbullying, and gender-based violence (GBV).
The use of the Internet has increased; hence it becomes imperative for everyone to be connected which further exacerbates the risk that comes with connectivity. Though cyberspace introduced opportunities it also poses risks in the daily lives of many women and young women.
Cyberspace also offers an endless list of services and opportunities, but it is also accompanied by many risks and posture threats. Moreover, many who use the Internet are not aware of such threats; therefore, they may themselves be at risk.
The primary objectives of this programme are:
*To provide women with knowledge and skills on cybersecurity to protect themselves from online threats.
*Raise awareness about the dangers of cyberbullying and its connection to Gender-Based Violence
*Equip women with strategies to prevent and respond to incidents of cyberbullying and Online GBV
*Engage women about opportunities in the cybersecurity environment to improve their economic participation.
The target audience for the outreach programme:
• Women and Girls from the targeted communities
• Female Small Business Owners
• Disabled Young Women
• Unemployed women
• Young Women
Expected outcomes from Cybersecurity/cyberbullying Awareness Training :
*Women and Young Women to be able to identify dangers in cyberspace.
*Find solutions and be able to raise awareness about cybersecurity and Cyberbullying!
*To be vigilant and assist their families, especially children to respond to dangers when engaging in cyberspace.
*To have a knowledge of possible study and career opportunities in the area of cybersecurity
*A better understanding of online Gender-Based Violence
By championing the empowerment of women in the digital realm, we can foster a safer online environment, free from the shackles of cyberbullying and Gender-Based Violence.
Together, we can shape a society that upholds the values of respect, equality, and compassion. With unwavering determination, let us strive towards a violence-free world, aligned with the aspirations of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence.
Remember, change begins with us, and together, we can make a lasting impact.
#OnlineSafety
Online safety awareness training program for women focuses on cyber security, cyberbullying, and gender-based violence https://t.co/bcpAvPZner #ArriveAlive #Crime #GBV @SAPoliceService pic.twitter.com/D484Ylkz6v
– Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) November 1, 2023
