NCCE Ledzokuku Sensitizes Bethlehem Presbyterian JHS Students on Cyberbullying and Online Safety

Students of Bethlehem Presbyterian Junior High School have pledged to become advocates of safe and responsible internet use among their peers, families, and communities, following a sensitization programme organized by the Ledzokuku Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).

The engagement focused on cyberbullying, online safety, and responsible behaviour in the digital space. It formed part of the Commission’s efforts to equip young people with practical knowledge to navigate the internet safely, protect themselves from online risks, and use digital platforms in ways that promote respect, dignity, and responsible citizenship.

At the centre of the discussion was the need for students to understand that the internet, while useful for learning, communication, and personal development, can also expose young people to harm if not used carefully. The pupils were taken through common dangers in the digital space, including cyberbullying, online harassment, inappropriate content, impersonation, scams, and contact with online predators.

Addressing the students, an Assistant Director of the Commission, Madam Regina Adeti, explained that cyberbullying can take many forms, including insulting messages, spreading false information about others, sharing embarrassing pictures or videos, creating fake accounts, and using social media to threaten or humiliate people. She cautioned the pupils that such actions can affect the emotional well-being, confidence, and academic performance of victims.

Madam Adeti urged the students not to participate in cyberbullying, encourage it, or share harmful content. She advised them to treat others online with the same respect they are expected to show in school, at home, and in the wider community.

She further guided the pupils on how to identify possible online predators and unsafe online interactions. She cautioned them against accepting friend requests from strangers, sharing personal information, sending private photographs, or agreeing to meet people they only know through the internet. She reminded them that not everyone online is who they claim to be.

The students were also encouraged to protect their passwords, avoid clicking suspicious links, verify information before sharing, and report any form of online abuse or harassment to trusted adults, including parents, teachers, guardians, or relevant authorities.

Other resource persons, including Madam Gifty Amedzro, Senior Civic Education Officer, and Mr. Frank Essel, National Service Personnel, reinforced the importance of vigilance, discipline, and responsible digital conduct. They encouraged the pupils to use the internet for positive purposes such as learning, research, creativity, and meaningful communication.

The facilitators emphasized that digital responsibility is not limited to avoiding danger but also includes using online platforms to support others, promote truth, respect different opinions, and contribute to a safer digital environment.

The interactive session gave the students the opportunity to ask questions, share their experiences, and reflect on some of the challenges young people face online. Their participation showed a strong interest in understanding how to stay safe and support their friends when they encounter cyberbullying or other forms of online abuse.

At the end of the engagement, the students expressed appreciation to the NCCE for the timely intervention. They noted that the lessons learned would help them protect themselves online and also empower them to educate their friends, siblings, and families on safe internet use.

The programme ended with a renewed commitment from the learners to become responsible digital citizens and advocates of online safety. The NCCE Ledzokuku Municipal Office reiterated its commitment to promoting civic awareness among young people and preparing them to uphold discipline, respect, and responsibility in both physical and digital spaces.