Govt. Degree College Sidhra Sidhra

Safer Internet Day Celebrated With The Theme “Together For A Better Internet”

2025-02-11

As part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s nationwide initiative under the information Security Education and Awareness Project, GDC Sidhra under the aegis of IQAC, organized a workshop focusing on the theme ‘Together for a Better Internet’ with an aim to raise awareness about online safety practices, cyber hygiene and promotion and encouragement of responsible digital citizenship to create a safer and more inclusive online environment. This theme is a powerful reminder that we all have a role to play in making the digital world a safer and more inclusive space. It’s vital that we educate ourselves and others about online safety and work together to create an environment where everyone can explore the internet without fear or harm. The programme commenced with a thought-provoking lecture delivered by Shonima Malhotra, Assistant Professor in Sociology and the Nodal Officer, Cyber Jaagrookta Cell. The lecture began with an exploration of the evolving digital landscape, touching upon both the opportunities and risks associated with the internet. In her lecture, she emphasized the importance of developing strong digital literacy skills for internet security, privacy concerns, and safeguarding personal information online. She highlighted how online threats such as cyber bullying, phishing, identity theft, and online harassment have become more sophisticated and pervasive in recent years and further stressed the need for proactive measures, such as regularly updating passwords, using multi-factor authentication, and understanding the privacy settings on various social media platforms. She also underscored the importance of thinking critically about the content we share online and the long-term impact it can have on our digital footprint. With practical insights and real-life examples, the lecture empowered attendees to be more mindful of their digital presence. She urged the students to find a healthy balance between online and offline life. To conclude, she highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts, encouraging everyone to be vigilant, report online misconduct, and embrace their responsibility in shaping the future of the internet. Following the lecture, the event continued with a compelling PowerPoint presentation. The presentation was designed to present a visual overview of key topics related to online security, digital ethics, cyber hygiene and responsible internet use exploring crucial topics such as cyber bullying, online scams, digital footprints, and the role of individuals in making the internet a safer space. The slides emphasized the importance of being cautious with the information shared online and the potential long-term consequences of a careless digital footprint. Through this presentation, the students received an important message that by making conscious decisions and being mindful of their actions online, individuals can contribute to building an internet where safety, inclusivity, and respect are at the forefront. Students from various semesters of the college also participated in the workshop, sharing their insights through speeches on topics related to internet safety, responsible online behavior, and the power of digital tools for positive change. They spoke at length covering a broad range of key topics related to online safety, combating cyber bullying, privacy and personal information, digital responsibility and fighting misinformation. In addition they also deliberated upon practical steps and tips that individuals can follow to protect them and others. Their speeches reinforced the importance of working together as a community to foster a safer and more positive online experience for everyone. The workshop emphasizing that the internet’s future depends on how we collectively choose to shape it was organized by Shonima Malhotra, Nodal Officer Cyber Jaagrookta Cell under the able guidance of Dr. G.S. Rakwal , worthy Principal of the college with the active support of Dr. Anu Sharma and Dr. Mansoor Ali. The other staff members were also present for the workshop.