Qatar is taking significant steps to ensure the safety of internet users, especially children, from the risks associated with online activities. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) has established a centre for combating cybercrime and launched the safe space website to educate children and adolescents on the importance of online safety.
MCIT has issued important tips to ensure that children have a safe online experience. These tips emphasize setting time limits for app and game usage, using parental control apps to monitor online behavior, and supervising children to guide them on proper technology use. The goal is to promote healthy and safe digital habits among children.
The safe space programme by MCIT focuses on cyber safety in Qatar and aims to raise awareness on online safety issues in the region. The programme provides educational content to educators, students, parents, and the general public to empower them to create a safer cyberspace. This includes cyber safety awareness campaigns, ambassador programmes, digital libraries, and workshops promoting ethical responsibility in the digital world.
In addition, the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) in Qatar is working on awareness programmes targeting parents, teachers, and school students to educate them on digital safety and protection against internet dangers. The Educational Cyber Security Curricula project aims to raise awareness for students of all age groups and educational team members to build a digitally secure and technologically empowered community.
Qatar views protecting children and ensuring their online safety as a joint effort involving individuals, society, and the state. While the digital environment offers great benefits for children’s development, there are risks associated with unsafe internet use that could impact children’s health, behavior, and social well-being. It is crucial to monitor and guide children on the proper use of technology to mitigate these risks.
The collaborative efforts of MCIT, safe space programme, and NCSA demonstrate Qatar’s commitment to creating a safer online environment for children. By promoting cyber safety awareness and providing educational resources, Qatar is taking proactive measures to protect children from online threats and empower them to navigate the digital world safely. With ongoing initiatives and programmes, Qatar is working towards a digitally secure and technologically empowered community in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030.
