Khalifa Empowerment Programme “Aqdar” celebrates Safer Internet Day 2024 with a packed schedule of events

ABU DHABI: The Khalifa Empowerment Programme (Aqdar), in cooperation with its partners, has launched a packed schedule of events marking the Safer Internet Day under the slogan "Be Safe Digitally", with the aim of promoting the safe and positive use of digital technology and spreading digital awareness. This came during a press conference held today in collaboration with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) at its HQ in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of representatives of the participating entities from the public and private sectors. The following entities are participating in the organisation and sponsorship of the events marking the Safer Internet Day: Ministry of Education Cyber Security Council Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority Emirates Schools Establishment Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority Child Safety Department, Supreme Council for Family Affairs Ministry of Interior Child Protection Center Emirates Safer Internet Society Juvenile Association General Women's Union Zayed Higher Organisation SAAED for Traffic Systems Al Ameen Service Sharjah Child Safety Department Sharjah Private Education Authority Forsan UAE A number of government and private institutions The activities, which are held in February of each year, include the launch of qualitative initiatives, virtual sessions, lectures and themed workshops, cultural competitions, and a series of media awareness materials in several languages broadcast through the partners' platforms and all local media, and through a unified hashtag for social communication. Dr. Ibrahim Al Dabal, Director, Khalifa Empowerment Programme, affirmed that the Safe Internet events are held every year as one of the awareness campaigns that aim to promote positive citizenship and achieve a safe digital quality of life within the directives of the UAE government to improve its modern technical services and to establish a culture of safe use and commitment to electronic and smart resources and services. Dr. Mohamed Hamad Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the Cyber Security Council, stressed the importance of raising awareness about the safe use of the internet, especially among young people and children. He said that internet use has become an integral part of our daily lives, and stressed the UAE's commitment to providing a safe electronic environment for all internet users, through investment in cybersecurity technologies and the development of awareness programs. Mohamed Jalal Alrayssi, Director General of the Emirates News Agency, stressed WAM's keenness to contribute effectively to all efforts that promote the safe and positive use of digital technology, and to be a partner in the events organised by the relevant entities in this field. Underlining the critical role of responsible media, Alrayssi emphasised media influence on educating the public on safe information network practices. He underscored the importance of harnessing technology responsibly, highlighting its potential to empower individuals and contribute positively to society. Alrayssi further noted the indispensable nature of the information network, which has become a cornerstone of everyday life and serves as a vital platform for services across both public and private sectors. Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women's Union, expressed her delight at participating in the Safer Internet Day, noting that their participation in this event is not just a presence, but is part of their continuous national efforts to achieve digital quality of life . Source: Emirates News Agency