Catholic Youth lead cyber-bullying fight in South Africa

Parishioners at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Cape Town-South Africa have turned to Evadne Kortje to address the pressing issue of cyber-bullying in South Africa.

Their choice reflects not only her role as a Catechist but also her experience with the State Prosecutor’s office, a critical asset in understanding the complexities of online behaviour.

Evadne’s immediate focus is to clarify the definitions of online perpetration and victimhood as outlined by South African law. This initiative forms part of a broader Catholic ministry effort aimed at promoting digital safety and fostering healthy online habits among the laity. The parishioners express a desire to “pacify the internet” and clip its wings, especially in school-aged children.

Across the continent, many parishes face challenges in adapting to the digital age and investing in safe internet practices. While only a handful are actively addressing these issues, the need for strong strategies to combat online impersonation and harassment is clear.

As noted by The Papacy, “Humanity has entered a new era in which our technical prowess has brought us to crossroads.”

Educational Approach

Brandon Shadrach, the Information and Technology (I.T) Manager at Maris Stella School for Girls in the Archdiocese of Durban, plays a pivotal role in this effort.

His responsibilities extend beyond blocking inappropriate content; they include educating students on the risks associated with their online activities. Each academic year, the school invites parents and guardians to informative sessions led by the school counsellor and the I.T. office, where they discuss the impact of screen time for children.

Brandon observes that this initiative has fostered respect among students, extending beyond the school gates. Witnessing responsible online behaviour instils hope that supportive cyber environments can transcend mere clicks and likes.

As technological advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), enhance educational quality, students also learn to navigate electronic threats like phishing and scamming.

By blending belief and technology, this Catholic institution and similar communities are nurturing ethical digital citizens.

However, Brandon warns against the impulsive sharing of personal information because, “once something is posted online, it cannot truly be erased.” This perspective encourages students to recognise that life is a long game, and the internet can be unforgiving.

Secular Support

Despite claims by many African governments of limited resources to combat online violations, there is a pressing need for increased investment in digital literacy programmes and support structures for victims of cyber violence.

The Department of Basic Education in South Africa has maintained a strong stance against cyber violence, introducing classroom digital integration lessons similar to those at Maris Stella School for Girls. These initiatives aim to boost students’ self-esteem when online, giving hope that there is light at the end of this digital tunnel.

Engagement with Internet Service Providers, technology companies, and software developers to remove harmful content is crucial. Experts suggest that “spending less than six hours daily on screen time is enough to create a healthy mentality.” As young people’s lives become increasingly digitised, the importance of monitoring and enforcing cyber security is paramount.

Catholics in Cape Town remain hopeful, believing that the internet can be a positive space. They strive to overcome the challenges of smart education despite the associated costs.

Legal System

In 2018, South Africa enacted the Cybercrimes and Cybersecurity Bill. However, a recent thematic paper revealed that 51% of young people in the country have experienced online violence. Alarmingly, the paper reveals that “the majority of perpetrators and peddlers of online violence are said to have been victims of cyber-bullying before.”

To address this troubling trend, collaboration among all relevant authorities is essential. A robust legal framework can influence policy and encourage the allocation of resources for healthy online environments. By dispelling doubts about the commitment of regulatory authorities, the potential to police and penalise online offenders effectively increases.

Equipping youth to navigate this digital landscape requires the dedication of professionals like Evadne. Instilling respect for others and prioritising personal information security are crucial components of this effort.

Not only that, users will also know what it means to respect others, prioritising protecting their personal information and general cybersecurity knowledge. As Pope Francis has highlighted, “Contemporary man has not been trained to use power well.”

It is time for internet users to beat their swords into ploughshares and contribute meaningfully to the use of digital tools. After all, it is humanity that faces the wrath of the internet should our hands remain unfolded.