Yaa Bitha, a popular media personality at 3Music, has stressed the need for collective action to address online harassment in its various forms, including cyberbullying, physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and financial exploitation. Speaking to level 400 students of Safety in Journalism at the University of Media Arts and Communication, she emphasised that tackling the problem requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving individuals and organisations across different sectors of society. This approach is necessary to create a safer online environment for all users.
Yaa Bitha expressed concern about the normalisation of bullying on social media, where people often make derogatory comments about others' physical appearance, clothing, shoes, and personal choices without considering the emotional consequences. She revealed that she has faced countless instances of online harassment about her body type and that the abuse sometimes affects her. Her father has been a source of encouragement and support during those difficult moments, reminding her of her achievements and self-worth.
During her discussion with the students, Yaa Bitha questioned why some social media users would ridicule others over their belongings and personal achievements, arguing that such behaviour creates an unhealthy online environment. She called for stronger measures to hold people accountable for online harassment, suggesting that the strict approach adopted by Snapchat should be given greater prominence to discourage bullying. This approach would help to deter online harassers and create a safer online space.
Yaa Bitha recently attended a launch at the University of Ghana, where she was struck by the number of people experiencing different forms of abuse, both online and offline. She emphasised that more initiatives of this nature are needed to educate the public about online harassment. This would help to raise awareness and promote a culture of kindness and respect online.
According to Yaa Bitha, the responsibility to combat bullying should extend to everyone, regardless of their profession or social standing. This includes students, farmers, healthcare professionals, security personnel, and other members of society. By working together, individuals and organisations can create a safer and more supportive online environment.
Yaa Bitha encouraged the public to practise kindness, reminding people that a simple gesture or word of encouragement could positively influence someone's day. She emphasised that no one truly knows what another person may be going through, and a small act of kindness can make a significant difference. By promoting a culture of kindness, individuals can help to mitigate the effects of online harassment.
Yaa Bitha's call to action is part of a broader effort to address online harassment in Ghana. Her initiative aims to educate the public about the dangers of online harassment and promote a culture of respect and kindness online. By engaging with stakeholders and individuals across different sectors of society, Yaa Bitha hopes to create a safer and more supportive online environment for all users.
Key points
- Yaa Bitha calls for collective action to address online harassment in Ghana.
- She suggests that a strict approach, like Snapchat's, should be adopted to discourage bullying.
- Yaa Bitha encourages the public to practise kindness to mitigate the effects of online harassment.
