The fourth edition of Safer Internet Day was launched on November 3, 2026, at the University of Joseph Ki-Zerbo in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The event, themed "Digital Technologies, Informed Choices for Safe and Responsible Use of AI," aims to educate young people about the opportunities and risks associated with Internet and artificial intelligence (AI) use. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications.
The ceremony was presided over by Minister of Digital Transition, Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabané, and sponsored by Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Pr Adjima Thiombiano. Dr. Zerbo/Sabané emphasized that AI should complement learning and enhance students' critical thinking skills, not replace their personal efforts. She warned that over-reliance on AI can lead to a loss of critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Minister Zerbo/Sabané also highlighted the potential risks associated with digital technologies, including cyberbullying, online scams, identity theft, and personal data exploitation. She encouraged students to develop critical thinking, verify information accuracy, and adopt responsible online behavior. The minister emphasized that AI can generate realistic images, videos, and texts that can deceive even the most cautious individuals.
Minister Thiombiano urged students to use digital technologies and AI responsibly and reflectively. He encouraged them to become innovators, not just users, and to promote good digital habits. The Ministry of Higher Education will continue to work with the Ministry of Digital Transition to integrate good digital practices into university life and student training.
The event also launched the "Vidéo Challenge SID-2026" contest, which encourages young Burkinabè to create awareness content on responsible digital behavior. The contest is open to individuals and teams of young people aged 18-30, who can submit videos on safe and responsible AI use. A panel will select the top three winners, who will receive prizes of 1,000,000 F CFA, 600,000 F CFA, and 400,000 F CFA.
The contest aims to promote local content and address the scarcity of national productions on digital awareness. The Ministry hopes that the initiative will inspire young people to produce content that promotes responsible digital behavior. The Safer Internet Day event features communications and exchanges with participants, focusing on safe and responsible AI use.
The fourth edition of Safer Internet Day will run until November 27, 2026, when the Week of Digital Technology will be celebrated. The event aims to make the digital space safer for young people and promote informed choices about digital technologies and AI use.
Key points
- The event promotes responsible AI use and digital literacy among young people in Burkina Faso.
- The "Vidéo Challenge SID-2026" contest encourages young Burkinabè to create awareness content on responsible digital behavior.
- The initiative aims to make the digital space safer for young people and promote informed choices about digital technologies and AI use.
