A new partnership between UNICEF Bangladesh, Grameenphone and Telenor will help more than 1 crore children in Bangladesh to use digital technology ethically and responsibly. Under this partnership, an initiative titled “Strengthening Digital Literacy and Safe, Ethical and Responsible Use of Digital Technologies for Children in Bangladesh” will be launched.
Through the implementation of the initiative, Grameenphone aims to build the necessary skills for digital literacy among the children and adolescents of Bangladesh and to increase their awareness of the safe, ethical and responsible use of digital technology, taking into account the growing problems and possibilities of the digital domain.
UNICEF representative in Bangladesh, Sheldon Yate, said, “UNICEF is working to ensure that every child in Bangladesh grows up in a safe environment and is protected from violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.” The Internet offers many opportunities in the field of education and development of children. At the same time, it is equally important to ensure children’s digital literacy and online safety to protect them from any harmful content and threats online.”
More than 1 crore students of the country including 4.2 lakh students studying in 8th and 9th standard will benefit through this initiative. Among them, 1 million at-risk children, including children with special needs, will be prioritized in the digital education journey of the project. Additionally, an additional 6 million students from classes 8 to 10 will have the opportunity to participate in multiple sessions on online safety and digital literacy across age groups.
In addition, 25 thousand teachers and 2 million parents will be involved in this project to disseminate relevant information including discussions about the importance of online safety.
Grameenphone Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Yasir Azman said, “Ensuring that online safety and digital literacy are integrated into our education is a commitment to a secure future for our children. By teaching how to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly, we help ensure the safety of every student while empowering them to use technology to its full potential. In this regard, we also work to ensure their safety and well-being.”
He further said, “My sincere gratitude to UNICEF for its strong commitment to such a global partnership. We all have a responsibility to keep children safe online. And now is the time to come forward to contribute to this great cause.”
Johan Martin Sealant, Head of Sustainability, Telenor Asia, said, “Digital skills and online security are crucial in unlocking the opportunities and possibilities of connectivity. Telenor Asia, Grameenphone and UNICEF working together will set a unique precedent in taking this initiative to the next level in terms of scope, reach and impact. Technology is moving very fast. Everyone needs the opportunity to build and develop digital skills to keep up with this and protect themselves in the digital world of the future in line with the needs of today.”
Since 2019, UNICEF Bangladesh, Grameenphone and Telenor have been working together under the Telenor Global Partnership to raise awareness among children, parents and caregivers about safe internet practices, as well as reduce online risks among teenagers and engage them as digital influencers in their own communities.
Through this program more than 2 crore students, teachers, parents and guardians have been trained in Bangladesh. This innovative partnership is a reflection of Grameenphone and Telenor’s commitment to empowering and protecting the youth of Bangladesh, especially in the digital sphere. On the other hand, UNICEF is continuously working on its commitment to ensure a more sustainable future by engaging with the youth and contributing to their development.
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