The 4th edition of the Interfaith Workshop on Protecting Children and Youth in the Virtual World (AIPEJV) was held in Lomé, Togo, on September 26. Organized by Winds Impact Togo in collaboration with local partners, the conference brought together public actors, civil society organizations, and experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities of digital education. The event aimed to strengthen the protection, education, and development of children and young people in the face of rapid technological changes.
The conference, themed "Education in the Digital Age: Challenges, Risks, and Opportunities for Africa," featured several panels led by prominent figures in the field. The discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to protecting children and young people online. This includes not only preventing harm but also developing the necessary skills and capacities for individuals, families, and communities to navigate the digital world responsibly.
The workshop sought to achieve several objectives, including promoting a culture of protection for children and young people in online environments and developing adapted educational practices. The event also aimed to consolidate the capacities of families, schools, and social actors, as well as foster dialogue among stakeholders involved in protection and education. The goal is to ensure that technological advancements benefit children and young people.
According to panelists, the impacts of the digital age depend largely on the ability of individuals, families, and institutions to use technology responsibly and creatively. They emphasized that information, education, skills development, and community dialogue are essential means of protection against online risks. The discussions underscored the need for a collaborative effort to ensure that children and young people can harness the benefits of technology while minimizing its risks.
Representing the Minister of Child Protection, Mme Wilson Vignon Tchotcho highlighted the potential of digital technologies to modernize Togo's education system and enhance young people's digital skills. She called on parents and educators to play a vital role in teaching children to verify information, protect their personal data, and use artificial intelligence responsibly. Mme Wilson emphasized the importance of guiding children in navigating the digital world.
The representative of Winds Impact International Togo, Pastor Pierre Adoubi, also spoke at the conference. While specific details of his remarks are not available, his participation underscores the organization's commitment to promoting child protection and digital responsibility. The collaboration between Winds Impact Togo and local partners demonstrates the importance of joint efforts in addressing the challenges of the digital age.
The 4th edition of AIPEJV Lomé 2026 provided a platform for experts and stakeholders to share insights and experiences on protecting children in the digital age. The conference highlighted the need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by technological advancements. Key outcomes of the conference are expected to inform future initiatives and strategies for promoting digital responsibility and child protection in Togo and beyond.
Key points
- The conference aimed to strengthen the protection, education, and development of children and young people in the face of rapid technological changes.
- Panelists emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to protecting children and young people online, including developing necessary skills and capacities.
- The event highlighted the potential of digital technologies to modernize education systems and enhance young people's digital skills.
