Primary School heads have been urged to protect student data to enhance their safety and security against online vulnerability and targets.
Addressing the Kenya Primary Schools Heads Associations (KEPSHA) annual general meeting at sheikh khalif in Mombasa, Amnesty International Kenya Executive Director, Houghton irungu emphasized that children digital privacy is a human right that requires strong regulations and ethical practices from schools, techs companies and government.
He called upon parents and teachers to embrace digital literacy for students urging tech companies to use safety by design to protect them against online bullying.
Irungu also called for stronger government oversight and consistent penalties for data misuse especially in the context of increase online learning tools.
ALSO READ:
Majority of Grade 9 learners opt for STEM ahead of senior school transition
He said that children data directors must ensure that a higher level of privacy, safety and security is provided for all system and other technologies.
Irungu also challenged school heads to educate students about online risk, such as inappropriate content grooming, and data misuse and also encourage parents to supervise their children online activities and guide them on safety measures.
He however called upon the relevant companies to provide clear information on how student’s data is used and seek for proper consent on how to use or share.
The director Houghton also pushed for stricter laws and regulations to protect children’s data rights , which recognized their right to privacy as enshrined in international conventions on the rights of the child (CRC)
The director called upon parents to look and review the terms and conditions of educational apps servicers they consent to their children.
He rally for support of community based efforts and campaigns that engages young Kenyans to advocate for the better data protections.
Collins Akong’o
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
