Pic courtesy Nelson Mandela University
A first of its kind novel project that is specifically aimed at Grade R learners has, for now, been rolled out at at least one Nelson Mandela Bay primary school to guard against cyberbullying.
The pilot project, is being run at Beachwood pre-primary school in Nelson Mandela Bay, with the aim of involving more schools in 2024.
"We turned our attention to Grade R learners, who may or may not be online yet, to focus on and encourage the behaviours and attitudes of good digital citizenship," Professor Kerry-Lynn Thompson said at the launch of the initiative at Nelson Mandela University on Thursday.
Thompson explained that it entails the creation of a Cybersmart Squad, where cartoon characters based on the Big Five animals in South Africa, "teach young children how to how to interact responsibly online to become good digital citizens.
The project uses age-appropriate content, including animated videos and worksheets, to teach children about cyber safety in a fun, interactive way, she added.
Prof Thomson said most existing cyber safety awareness initiatives in South Africa and globally, are aimed at older children who are required to, for example, read content and take quizzes in an attempt to raise cybersecurity awareness.
Based on the Big Five animals in South Africa, the Cybersmart Squad include Lethu the Lion, Esihle the Elephant, Lily the Leopard, Ryno the Rhino and Babalo the Buffalo.
"Each of the characters has a 'superpower', namely Courage, Kindness, Safety, Respect and Honesty, respectively, which should extend from the 'real playground' to the 'digital playground', too," Prof Thomson said.
Through these 'superpowers', the Cybersmart Squad aims to teach Grade R children about the 'superpowers', or characteristics, which could help guard them against cyber threats, such as cyberbullying.
Prof Thompson said Department of Basic Education has also expressed an interest in the project.
She said a recent survey found that "one out of every five teens falls prey to cyberbullying, and 84% of classmates know of someone who has been victimised.
"Against this backdrop, it is crucial to ensure that children are prepared to navigate the online environment safely and responsibly."
