Press Release by the Ministry for Social Justice and Solidarity, the Family and Children’s Rights: Launch of another BeSmartOnline project

Reference Number: PR211154

The sixth edition of the BeSmartOnline project has just been launched. This project aims to teach the use of technology and give awareness of the risks it may pose.  The project seeks to prevent online abuse of children, adolescents and adults through awareness campaigns. This project shall now also be supported by a new app which shall join the existent tools to fight virtual abuse.

Several entities have joined forces to work together on this project, among them are the Foundation for Social Welfare Services (FSWS), the Office of the Commissioner for Children within the Ministry for Social Justice and Solidarity, the Family and Children’s Rights, the Directorate for Learning and Assessment Programmes within the Ministry for Education and the Police Cybercrime Unit within the Ministry for Home Affairs, National Security and Law Enforcement.

Minister Michael Falzon said that the main purpose of this collaboration is protecting children from the difficulties that may be caused by the use of technology and to bring awareness to children and youths, as well parents and educators regarding the careful use of technology and the dangers that may be encountered.

Minister Falzon added that in today’s world we know that as from a young age, children are encouraged to use technology for educational purposes as well as for communication and also for fun. This in and of itself is something extremely positive, however we know that there are dangers and risks which children can encounter while exploring the virtual world.

The Chief Executive Officer of FSWS, Alfred Grixti explained that thanks to the Safer Internet Centre, this project shall work constantly towards raising awareness. It shall also offer support to those who encounter online abuse, or are themselves victims through the 179 Helpline. Through this project, students are receiving specific lessons during PSCD related to the appropriate use of technology and awareness about what action to take when encountering abusive situations.