Nairobi: Youth in Laikipia County are being urged to engage in digital learning to shield themselves from online dangers. Laikipia East Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Muli emphasized the rapid advancement of technology, which has left many young individuals vulnerable to online exploitation without their awareness.
According to Kenya News Agency, Muli pointed out that the lack of digital literacy has made the youth susceptible to online predators and exploitation. “Youth need to enroll in digital learning classes to enable them to get job opportunities through online spaces and also avoid exploitation from predators unknowingly due to lack of information,” Muli stated. This appeal was made during the launch of a digital literacy program aimed at young people from informal settlements in the county, organized by Binti Mwangaza, a community-based organization focused on equipping vulnerable youth with crucial digital skills.
Muli also encouraged young individuals to acquire digital skills that would help them navigate online work environments safely and earn a living. He emphasized that students who have benefited from digital literacy training should serve as role models, as they would be exposed to various skills, including time management, counseling, and entrepreneurship.
Ms. Ann Gakii, the founder of Binti Mwangaza, a branch of Binti Digital Literacy Hub, which targets teenage mothers and boys from areas like Likii and Majengo who lack formal training, disclosed that approximately 30 students had enrolled in the program. The beneficiaries are expected to graduate in three months and will receive certificates upon successful completion of their courses.
Moreover, Ms. Gakii highlighted that, in addition to digital skills training, the young people were receiving training in life skills, photography, and entrepreneurship, among other areas. Meanwhile, a recent report by Child Light Global Child Safety Institute revealed that over 300 million children fall victim to technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse annually.
