Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I stand before you today as Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Communications to celebrate “Safer Internet Day 2024”. This event marks a significant milestone in our nation’s commitment to ensuring online safety for our people.
The theme for this year’s Safer Internet Day, “Inspiring Change? Making a Difference, Managing Influence and Navigating Change Online” resonates deeply with the challenges we face in our increasingly digital world. The internet has become an integral part of our lives, connecting us like never before. However, it also brings forth various risks and dangers that we must address collectively. The Online Safety Commission has been tirelessly working towards creating a safer online environment for our citizens, especially our children and vulnerable communities.
Today, we’re acknowledging their efforts and recognise the importance of promoting responsible internet usage. We must understand that while the internet provides us with endless opportunities, it also exposes us to various threats such as cyberbullying and other related online matters. We must empower individuals to make a difference by promoting responsible online behaviour and managing their influence effectively. It is crucial that we navigate the ever-changing landscape of the internet while ensuring the safety and well-being of all users.
Through initiatives like Safer Internet Day, we aim to raise awareness about these issues and empower individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the online world safely. It is essential that we educate ourselves on privacy settings, secure passwords, and spotting fake news.
I encourage everyone to actively participate in this event by attending workshops and engaging in discussions on online safety. Let us come together as a community to protect ourselves from harm while embracing the benefits of technology.
On behalf of the Fiji Government, I extend my gratitude to all those who have contributed towards making this event possible. Together, let us celebrate Safer Internet Day 2024 and work towards building a safer digital future for Fiji.
Vinaka Vakalevu.