Aqdar Celebrates Safer Internet Day 2024 with Comprehensive Digital Safety Events

The Khalifa Empowerment Programme (Aqdar), in collaboration with its partners, has unveiled a comprehensive schedule of activities to commemorate Safer Internet Day, adopting the motto "Be Safe Digitally." The initiative aims to foster the safe and responsible use of digital technology while enhancing digital literacy. This announcement was made at a press conference held in Abu Dhabi, hosted by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), with representatives from both public and private sectors in attendance.

Several esteemed entities have joined forces to support the Safer Internet Day events, including the Ministry of Education, Cyber Security Council, Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority, Emirates Schools Establishment, and many others. These collaborations underscore the collective effort to promote cybersecurity awareness across the UAE.

The annual February events are set to introduce a variety of initiatives, including virtual sessions, lectures, workshops, cultural competitions, and a wealth of media awareness content in multiple languages. These resources will be disseminated through partner platforms, local media outlets, and a unified social media hashtag to ensure widespread reach.

Dr. Ibrahim Al Dabal of the Khalifa Empowerment Programme highlighted that these events align with the UAE government's vision to enhance its technological services and foster a culture of cybersecurity and responsible digital engagement. Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti from the Cyber Security Council emphasized the critical need for internet safety awareness, particularly among youth and children, in light of the internet's integral role in daily life. He affirmed the UAE's dedication to creating a secure online environment through significant investments in cybersecurity technologies and awareness initiatives.

Mohamed Jalal Alrayssi from WAM expressed the agency's commitment to promoting safe digital practices and its role as an active participant in these efforts. He stressed the importance of responsible media in educating the public about safe internet use and highlighted technology's potential to positively impact society.

Noura Al Suwaidi from the General Women's Union shared her enthusiasm for participating in Safer Internet Day, viewing it as an extension of their ongoing national efforts to enhance digital quality of life for all citizens. This collaborative endeavor reflects a unified commitment to ensuring a safer digital environment within the UAE.

With inputs from WAM