Pretoria - As the world celebrates Safer Internet Day on Tuesday, Communications Minister Faith Muthambi has urged South Africans to play their part in promoting a safe, responsible and positive online environment.
Minister Muthambi’s call is in line with this year’s theme, ‘Play your part for a better internet’.
“This day is celebrated globally to bring our attention to the need to develop high-quality online content for children and young people, step up awareness and empowerment, in particular through digital literacy and skills, and mobilise support for the prevention of child abuse, especially through online platforms,” she said.
Minister Muthambi said a better internet is good for society as it promotes the advancement of the country.
The Minister said it is everyone’s responsibility - parents, teachers, children, young people and care-givers - to get together and make sure that the nation can stand together for a safer and better online space.
The Communications Department has proposed amendments to the Films and Publications Act of 1996, which will compel all online content distributors to ensure that their content is not offensive or in violation of the country’s laws.
Cabinet approved these proposed amendments for tabling in Parliament in November last year. These are set to come up before Parliament for discussion.
“What we seek to achieve with these amendments is the extension of the functions of the Film and Publications Board of monitoring compliance with the Films and Publications Act to include online distributors, in respect of the requirements, to comply with the act,” she said.
The safer online campaign has evolved over the years, from a focus on creating a 'safer' internet, to creating a 'better' internet.
From cyber-bullying to social networking, each year Safer Internet Day aims to raise awareness of emerging online issues. - SAnews.gov.za
