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The National Data Management Authority (NDMA) recently concluded a Cyber Road Show at Three Miles Secondary and Bartica Secondary School in Bartica Region Seven (Cuyuni Mazaruni), reaching over 300 students across the region. This outreach programme forms part of NDMA’s ongoing efforts to enhance digital literacy and cybersecurity awareness across the country, ensuring that students are equipped to navigate the digital landscape safely.
Led by a team from NDMA’s Cybersecurity Division, the aim was to raise awareness about cyber safety and responsible online behaviour. The training sessions covered essential cyber hygiene topics such as cyberbullying, cyber-grooming, and recognizing the consequences of inappropriate online behaviour.
Mr. Daniel Williams, Head Teacher of Three Miles Secondary School, expressed his appreciation for the programme, noting its timeliness. “We have been looking forward to something like this for a long time. One major issue among students is that conflicts often begin on social media, escalating into physical altercations. By educating them on cyber awareness and the consequences of their online actions, we can prevent many of these incidents,” said Mr. Williams. He further reminded that despite being a remote area, students in Bartica are not immune to cyber threats, as students have access to, and utilize the internet daily for various reasons.
Ms. Teerani Gamell, Headmistress of Bartica Secondary School, echoed the need for the training, noting that it comes at a critical time, as more students actively engage in social media use, and may not know how to practice safe cyber hygiene. “This workshop is timely; it helps build self awareness and encourages students to use social media to influence others positively. The training benefits not only students but also teachers and the wider community, fostering better communication and stronger relationships,” said Ms. Gamell.
Over the past five (5) years these sentiments have been shared by many participants of NDMA’s annual outreaches. All of whom have reiterated the need for such training and expressed their appreciation of NDMA’s efforts. This has reinforced NDMA’s commitment to continuing its cybersecurity training initiatives. Today, the NDMA Cyber Road Show is part of a larger series of activities repeated annually in recognition of Cybersecurity Month. Through these interventions NDMA hopes to foster a culture of safe internet usage and promote digital responsibility among young people. This initiative is an important step towards creating a more cyber-aware society where everyone can reap the benefits of the internet while being vigilant against online threats.
NDMA remains committed to empowering all citizens, including those in hinterland, remote and riverain regions like Bartica, with both access to internet and the knowledge to use the technology safely.
