In a remarkable initiative aimed at promoting cyber safety and combating bullying, nine-year-old Abdurrahman Ali Al Mulla has taken on the role of mentor for his peers at Blossoms Nursery in the UAE. Through a student-led government program, he has been trained as a Digital Safety Ambassador, sharing vital information about safe online practices with fellow students.
Key Takeaways
- Abdurrahman Ali Al Mulla, a 9-year-old, mentors peers on cyber safety and bullying.
- He has delivered over 17 sessions to students across Sharjah.
- The initiative is part of a broader effort to combat online bullying in schools.
With the increasing prevalence of social media, online bullying has become a significant concern in educational settings. Abdurrahman addressed more than 25 students, emphasizing the importance of not clicking on suspicious links and creating strong passwords for online accounts. He also attempted to explain bullying in age-appropriate terms, although some younger students struggled to grasp the concept.
Abdurrahman is one of many children trained by the Sharjah Government Social Services Department and the Digital Government Regulatory Authority. Since completing a five-day training program in January, he has actively participated in educating his peers about digital safety.
The Importance Of Peer-Led Programs
Peer-led initiatives are gaining recognition for their effectiveness in conveying important messages to young audiences. According to Noona Nafousi, founder of Neo Noor, children are more likely to listen to their peers than adults. This approach not only empowers young people to take on leadership roles but also fosters a sense of community and understanding among participants.
- Benefits of Peer-Led Programs:
- Empowerment: Encourages young individuals to step into leadership roles.
- Community Building: Creates a supportive environment where participants feel understood.
- Effective Communication: Messages resonate more when delivered by peers.
Many schools are now incorporating mental health ambassadors into their student councils to address issues like bullying and digital well-being. Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO and principal of Credence High School, highlighted the importance of these roles in promoting a safe and supportive school environment.
Addressing Online Bullying
The rise of social media has led to various forms of online bullying, including verbal and relational bullying. This can have severe emotional and psychological impacts on students, affecting their academic performance and social relationships. Schools are increasingly recognizing the need for proactive measures to combat this issue.
- Forms of Online Bullying:
- Verbal Bullying: Name-calling, teasing, or threats.
- Social Bullying: Exclusion, gossip, or humiliation to damage social standing.
In light of recent incidents, including a tragic case where an 11-year-old girl was hospitalized due to severe online bullying, the urgency of these programs has become even more apparent. Schools and government agencies are working together to implement effective strategies to protect students and promote a culture of respect and kindness.
Conclusion
Abdurrahman Ali Al Mulla’s initiative is a shining example of how young individuals can make a significant impact in their communities. By educating his peers about cyber safety and bullying, he is not only helping to create a safer online environment but also inspiring others to take action. As more schools adopt similar programs, the hope is to foster a generation that values empathy and respect in both the physical and digital worlds.
