The Minister of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications, Aminata Zerbo, officially launched the 4th edition of Safer Internet Day in Ouagadougou on November 3, 2026. The event, themed "Digital Technologies, Informed Choices for Safe and Responsible AI Use," aims to promote responsible internet use among students and young people. The ceremony was attended by students, the Brigade centrale de lutte contre la cybercriminalité (BCLCC), and other stakeholders.
Minister Zerbo emphasized that the widespread use of social media and artificial intelligence (AI) requires informed choices to ensure safe and responsible use. She noted that while the internet offers numerous opportunities for information, education, and entrepreneurship, it also poses risks such as cyberbullying, online scams, and identity theft. The minister encouraged students to be cautious and learn to protect their online accounts and verify information.
The event is part of a national awareness campaign to promote safe internet use, and Minister Zerbo stressed the importance of protecting users, particularly young people, from online risks. She highlighted the need for informed choices in the digital space, where technologies are rapidly evolving. The minister also encouraged students to seize the opportunities offered by the digital world while being aware of the associated risks.
Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, Adjima Thiombiano, who is also the ceremony's sponsor, emphasized the importance of critical thinking in the digital age. He noted that while AI can provide rapid information, it is essential to verify sources and use critical thinking to evaluate information. Thiombiano encouraged students to use AI as a tool for reflection, rather than relying solely on it.
As part of the event, a video challenge, "VIDEO CHALLENGE," was launched, open to young people aged 18-30, either Burkinabè or residing in Burkina Faso. Participants are invited to create a video, either individually or in teams of up to four people, on the theme of safe internet use. The top three videos will be awarded prizes during the upcoming Digital Week, scheduled for November 24-27, 2026.
The Safer Internet Day campaign aims to promote a culture of safe and responsible internet use among young people in Burkina Faso. The event is an opportunity for stakeholders to engage with students and raise awareness about online risks and opportunities. By promoting informed choices and critical thinking, the campaign seeks to empower young people to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly.
The 4th edition of Safer Internet Day in Burkina Faso is a significant step towards promoting a safer and more responsible digital environment for young people. The event has brought together stakeholders, students, and experts to discuss online risks and opportunities, and to promote a culture of safe internet use. By working together, stakeholders can help create a safer and more responsible digital space for all.
Key points
- Minister Aminata Zerbo launched Safer Internet Day 2026 to promote safe and responsible internet use among students in Burkina Faso.
- The event aims to raise awareness about online risks and opportunities, and to promote informed choices in the digital space.
- A video challenge was launched as part of the event, open to young people aged 18-30, to promote safe internet use and critical thinking.
