Responsible digital citizens

Recently, Apeejay School, Noida, organised an informative workshop on Social Media Awareness and Cyber Crime for students of Classes VII to IX. The session was led by Ms Chitra Tripathi, a renowned news anchor from the ABP News Network, with the aim of sensitizing students to the responsible use of social media and ensuring their safety in the digital world.

The programme began with a warm address by the school Principal, Dr Neha Sharma, who introduced the esteemed resource person and emphasised the growing importance of digital discipline in today’s interconnected world. She highlighted how students, while enjoying the benefits of social media, must remain vigilant against its potential risks. The session commenced with a felicitation ceremony, honouring Ms Tripathi for her contribution to spreading awareness on such a vital subject.

During her engaging talk, Ms Tripathi discussed the growing influence of social media in students’ lives, explaining both its advantages and possible pitfalls. She urged students to use digital platforms thoughtfully, protect their personal information, and ensure strict privacy settings on all accounts. She emphasised that while social media can be an excellent tool for learning, creativity, and connecting with friends, it can also expose young users to cyber threats if not approached responsibly.

Ms Tripathi elaborated on the various forms of cybercrime that students might encounter, including phishing, fake messages, scams, and impersonation. She stressed the importance of recognising suspicious online activity and immediately reporting it to parents, teachers, or elders. Through real-life examples, she illustrated how simple precautions could prevent students from becoming victims of online fraud or misuse of personal data.

The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, allowing students to clarify doubts and seek advice on practical steps for online safety. Many students actively participated, reflecting the effectiveness of the session in raising awareness and encouraging responsible digital behaviour.

The workshop reinforced the significance of being alert, thoughtful, and responsible digital citizens. It left students with a clear understanding that while technology and social media are valuable tools, safety, privacy, and responsible usage must always come first. Events like these at Apeejay School, Noida, highlight the school’s commitment to equipping students not just academically, but also socially and digitally, preparing them to navigate the online world with confidence and caution.