24/08/2024
The Regional Dialogue on the Digital Era, held virtually on June 22, 2024, and August 24, 2024, was a significant event aimed at addressing the impact of digital technology on children and youth across Asia. This dialogue was a collaborative effort involving representatives from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Nepal, and it provided a crucial platform for discussing how the digital world affects young people.
The first session of the dialogue took place on June 22, 2024. Despite being held online, the event successfully brought together a diverse group of participants from various regions. Foundation for the Development of Agusanon Inc (FDAI) was honored to represent the Philippines, with Charmelle Mangadlao and Jhon Lee Alute from Azpetia National High School joining other young representatives. The session included:
- Ten children from Agusan Del Sur (FDAI)
- Ten children from the Visayas (KAPASKI)
- Selected children from Nepal and Indonesia
The session began with a keynote speech that highlighted the transformative effects of digital technology on education, communication, and daily life. This was followed by panel discussions that addressed critical issues such as digital inclusion, online safety, and the role of technology in education. Charmelle Mangadlao and Jhon Lee Alute shared their experiences from Agusan Del Sur, presenting local initiatives designed to improve digital literacy and access for children.
Interactive workshops were a key feature of the session, fostering collaboration and problem-solving among participants. These workshops allowed participants to exchange ideas and develop solutions to common challenges. The session concluded with discussions on future actions and regional cooperation, stressing the importance of working together to support children as they navigate the digital world.
The second session, held on August 24, 2024, continued the dialogue by focusing on General Comment 25 (GC 25) from UNICEF. This document addresses children’s rights in the digital age. The virtual meeting included:
- Children from Nepal and Indonesia
- Children from Agusan Del Sur and the Visayas
The session began with a warm welcome from Ovi Jannah and opening remarks by Mala Diwi. A UNICEF representative provided an in-depth explanation of GC 25, detailing its importance for protecting children’s rights online and ensuring their safety in the digital environment. Participants, including Charmelle Mangadlao and Jhon Lee Alute, engaged in a question-and-answer segment to discuss how to apply the principles of GC 25 in their own contexts. The session ended with a summary of key points and a call to action, emphasizing the need for ongoing collaboration to uphold children’s digital rights and address emerging challenges.
The Regional Dialogue on the Digital Era was not only a valuable opportunity for discussing digital literacy and children’s rights but also a precursor to future face-to-face interactions. Participants from the Philippines, Indonesia, and Nepal are scheduled to physically meet in February 2025 in Manila, Philippines. This upcoming meeting will further strengthen the collaboration and continue the important work initiated during the virtual sessions.
The insights and strategies developed during these sessions will guide future efforts to ensure that children can navigate the digital world safely and effectively. The dialogue has provided a foundation for continued cooperation and advocacy to support young people in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.