Children in Karonga have asked parents, government and other stakeholders to ensure children, especially those in school, have more access to internet to enhance their learning, communication, participation in decision making and their general development.

Speaking on behalf of her fellow children during commemoration of this year’s Day of the African Child at Ngara Primary School in the district, Eliza Chavula, a standard 7 learner said internet was a tool that could enhance children’s enjoyment of freedom of expression. 

She noted that some children are abusing the internet by among other things downloading or streaming adult content.

“Internet is a very necessary tool for children in this digital era, only if we use it properly and responsibly. I warn my fellow children against streaming or downloading pornographic materials. I also request parents and guardians to monitor their children against accessing pornographic materials on the internet,” Chavula said.

Karonga District Council Chairperson, Misheck Mwaijengo asked well-wishers and stakeholders to support the district with ICT equipment that learners can be using to access internet services.

A Council Secretariat Official, Ireen Mwenelupembe said increasing internet access for learners was one of the priorities in the district’s development plans.

“We recognize the importance of internet access to primary and secondary school learners. As such, one of our development plans for the district is to build infrastructure in schools where learners should have access to the internet,” she said. 

This year’s Day of the African Child commemoration was held under a theme, ‘The rights of the child in the digital environment.’