Students seek social media safeguards

Students in Fiji's Central Division are calling for stricter regulations on social media platforms, warning that current online environments pose significant risks to young people. Appearing before the Constitutional Review Commission, they voiced serious concerns regarding cyberbullying, the proliferation of harmful content, and the exposure of children and teenagers to explicit material.

The students are urging policymakers to consider implementing a minimum age requirement for accessing social media. They believe this, along with strengthened online protection measures, is crucial for creating a safer digital space for youth. Sereima Ciriyawa of Suva Sangam College and Pavana Singh from Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School highlighted how easily harmful content is now accessible, leading to increased risks of cyberbullying and exploitation.

"I strongly support legislation that would prevent children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms to protect young people from cyberbullying, online exploitation, and excessive screen time," stated Ciriyawa, emphasizing that an age limit could effectively address the issue. Hefrani Matavou, Deputy Head Girl, also called for greater parental involvement in supervising young adults' online activities at home.

The Constitutional Review Commission acknowledged the students' contributions and encouraged broader public participation in this vital national process. The students' proactive stance underscores a growing concern among young people about the need for a more secure and responsible online world.

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I strongly support legislation that would prevent children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms to protect young people from cyberbullying, online exploitation, and excessive screen time.