BRAC, Google to collaborate on ‘Stay Safe Online’ project for children

BRAC, one of the largest global development entities, has launched ‘Stay safe online’ project to educate students of grades three to eight on internet safety. Tech giant Google is providing support to BRAC in this initiative through its philanthropic wing.

Through this project, BRAC aims to reach over 16,000 students, 600 plus teachers from 125 schools across Bangladesh, said a press release.

The project was launched at the Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka on Wednesday. Dilip Kumar Banik, Additional Secretary, Additional Director General (PEDP4), Directorate of Primary Education, was present at the event as the chief guest.

Md Nuruzzaman Sharif, Director, Bureau of Non Formal Education, and Professor Dr AKM Reazul Hassan, Member, National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) were present as special guests. Safi Rahman Khan, Director, Education, Skills Development and Migration, BRAC, chaired the event.

Furthermore, Professor Md Farhadul Islam, Chairman, NCTB; Kyle Gardner, Head of Public Policy, Google, South Asia; and Nazma Ashrafi, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Education and ICT), Cumilla, delivered their speeches online.

Dilip Kumar Banik said, “It is not easy to establish digital security and safety. Parents are primarily responsible to motivate children regarding safe usage of the internet. So they have to be well informed and alert about their children’s activities online.”

Professor Md Farhadul Islam said, “We cannot keep children out of the purview of the internet which has significant risks if not used properly. Considering all these, the NCTB has decided to add these elements in the curriculum. I am delighted to see Google supporting this initiative of BRAC.”

Nazma Ashrafi said, “Children are usually much more advanced in ICT than their parents. Keeping this reality in mind we have to work on the issue of online safety.” Safi Rahman Khan said, “Digital security is a significant global issue that needs urgent attention. We need to be especially cautious because the internet is now embedded in every aspect of our lives. As adults with the privilege and agency to make decisions, we need to ensure a secured online experience for our children.”

According to UNICEF, a large percentage of children aged 10-17 years using the internet face cyber harassment in Bangladesh.

Organisers said under this project localised content will be developed on internet safety suitable for students of class three to eight. The students will learn about the necessary precautions while exchanging information online, identifying false news or information, and keeping confidential information safe online. Development of a curriculum equipped with games, group discussion and classroom activities is underway for students.

The course will also have a separate online course for teachers who will work with students to learn safe online navigation. After completion of the project the course will be made available for all on the internet.