Letsike said particularly in protecting children's rights online.
Speaking at an event in Johannesburg, Gauteng province to commemorate International Data Privacy Day, Letsike underscored the role of government, technology companies, and institutions such as the Information Regulator in enforcing data protection laws. "We've seen initiatives everywhere else, and this effort that our Information Regulator is embarking on, we stand with and support wholeheartedly," she said.
International Data Privacy Day, observed annually on January 28, promotes best practices in consumer privacy and data protection. This year's theme, "Taking Control of Your Data," highlighted the importance of empowering individuals with knowledge about their digital rights.
The Chairperson of the Information Regulator, Pansy Tlakula, expressed concern about the low levels of awareness among young people regarding the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). "As the regulator, we are concerned about the low levels of awareness about the right to privacy among young people," she said. Studies conducted since 2022 in partnership with the Human Sciences Research Council revealed that only 42% of respondents were aware of their rights, with young people aged 18 to 24 contributing just 5% to that figure.
Minister of Basic Education, Kwarube, highlighted the urgent need for digital literacy to be integrated into the school curriculum to ensure children's safety online. "We also need to make sure that there’s a lot more digital literacy in schools and school communities.
Learners are leading the digital revolution, but educators have been left out of the conversation. How can an educator be a protector of children when they themselves are not equipped with digital literacy."
Learners also participated in the dialogue, voicing their concerns about online safety.
Kgomole Maboe, a student from Saint Matthew’s Private School, emphasised the importance of privacy. "All young people we spoke to see privacy as important, even though it might not always be provided in the way they hope," he said.
--ChannelAfrica--
