Digicel Foundation rolls out its Safer Internet Together Programme, targeting Jamaicans of all ages

Kingston, Jamaica – February 11, 2025 – The internet offers a world of possibilities, providing benefits and opportunities. It has made everyday life more convenient and knowledge more accessible. However, the online world is far from perfect. It has become a confusing, complex space for many Jamaicans to navigate. At times, the internet can seem like an unsafe place to be.

What are the dangers lurking in the digital landscape - and how can we protect ourselves? Addressing these concerns, the Digicel Foundation officially launched its Safer Internet Together (SIT) Programme on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. This year-long initiative puts the emphasis on online safety, digital responsibility and cyber awareness - for all Jamaicans.

The launch event at the Mona School of Business and Management, University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, observed Safer Internet Day 2025, under the theme “Together, For A Better Internet.” Digicel Foundation will roll out the SIT initiative in 150 educational institutions, in partnership with the ministry of Education, Skills, Youth and Information, STEM Builders Learning Hub, United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Sunshine Snacks, Jamaica Public Service Company (JPS), and Macmillan Education.

As CEO of Digicel Foundation, Charmaine Daniels pointed out [in a Letter to the Editor] the programme of activities will be inclusive, “engaging diverse groups across the country on digital literacy and online responsibility.” Daniels added: “Furthermore, in partnership with the Caribbean Community of Retired Persons (CCRP), we will conduct specialised sessions during Senior Citizens’ Month in September to help older adults recognise and protect themselves against online threats.”

Marcelo Cataldo, CEO of the Digicel Group, explained the programme’s goal: "We work every day to have our Internet available to our customers, but we are also mindful of the potential risks that the internet poses for young children. With the Safer Internet Together programme, we intend to raise awareness on how to mitigate the space carefully, with the help of all our sponsors.”

"Our responsibility at Digicel is to work together to help the new generation to be safe and to be protected.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Technology, Leonardo Brown, in a dynamic presentation at the launch, reminded participants: "The internet and connectivity never forgets; whatever you post remains somewhere.”

Audience member Christoph Tucker reacted: “This day provides opportunities to learn about online risks, how to stay safe online, where to get help, and how to gain a better understanding of the laws.” He stressed, “There are so many young children nowadays using tablets. We want to ensure that they're always safe and exposed to the right content, so that they become good people within our society.”

The Digicel Foundation CEO urged stakeholders and Jamaicans, young and old: “As we observe Safer Internet Day, let us commit to making the internet a place of opportunity rather than a source of harm. Let us foster a culture of responsible digital citizenship, ensuring that everyone - regardless of age or background - can explore the online world safely and confidently.”