The increased risks of internet usage among youths has prompted UNICEF Jamaica to start a new comprehensive research project that will gather current information on the online experiences of children between the ages of nine and 17.

Vicente Teran, acting representative for UNICEF Jamaica, announced of the Opportunities and risk of children’s internet use in Jamaica research project today (January 31) during the launch of Flow’s new online safety programme ‘Connected and Protected’.

Teran shared that UNICEF is currently in discussions around the research with several stakeholders as they aim to create a safer digital space for youths in Jamaica.

“This study looks at the demographic and socio-economic profile of Jamaican children who use the internet, as well as the factors that may influence their online experiences, making them positive or negative,” said Teran.

He added that “critical to this research is uncovering the nature and prevalence of online abuse and exploitations here in Jamaica”.

The onset of the pandemic had increased internet usage for many people, consequently increasing the prevalence of online abuse among children in Jamaica and much of the world.

As such, Teran has urged parents to be more involved in their children’s life and monitor their devices. To assists parents, the research will seek to uncover habits and practices that they can teach their children to use when maneuvering through the online space.

Information from the study will also be used to decide on public awareness messages and programmes to improve online safety and examine children’s overall digital experience.

Holistic approach needed

The research is aimed at having a holistic approach. As such, the findings will support work by various stakeholders inclusive of the Ministry of Education and Youth, Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Office of the Children’s Advocate, the Child Protection and Family Services Agency, civil sector and the private sector.

“It is only through ongoing multisectoral collaborations and engagements with a cross section of stakeholders, including children and adolescence that we will be able to strengthen digital skills and enable Jamaicans from all works of life to navigate their internet safely,” he noted.

UNICEF has also partnered with Flow to launch a U-Report poll to better understand the extent to which young Jamaicans can protect themselves from online harm. Recommendations about how Flow and UNICEF can protect youth online will also be taken from students.

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