In an age where social media is woven into the very fabric of our daily lives, its impact on young people is profound and multi-faceted. While these digital platforms open doors to global connections, learning, and creative expression, they also present challenges, particularly for youth. Issues such as cyberbullying, social media addiction, and the spread of misinformation are only a few of the dangers that lurk in cyberspace. Recognizing the urgency of addressing these concerns, the Great Commission Movement of Ghana's Digital Strategies team has taken upon itself a mission to equip students of Senior High Schools in Ghana with the tools to navigate the Digital World safely. The latest stop was at the Holy Child Senior High School in Cape Coast.
On the afternoon of May 12, 2024, the Assembly Hall of Holy Child School buzzed with anticipation. One hundred and seventy young women gathered for an interactive training session titled "Cyberspace Menace: Addressing the Effects of Social Media." The session was led by Mrs. Eunice Nartey, Director of Digital Strategies and was designed to raise awareness about both the benefits and the pitfalls of social media use.
Mrs. Nartey and her team recognized that for many students, social media is not just a tool but a lifestyle. Many young people spend hours scrolling through posts, sharing updates, and engaging with friends and influencers online. The challenge, however, lies in the potential risks that excessive or misguided social media use can pose. Mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, often go hand-in-hand with overexposure to social media. But for the team, this event was more than just about raising awareness—it was about giving students practical tools to navigate their digital lives responsibly.
The event kicked off with a heartfelt prayer, followed by Mrs. Nartey’s warm welcome. She wasted no time in driving home the critical message of the day: “Social media is a powerful tool, but it’s up to us to use it wisely. The way we engage online can shape our mental well-being, our relationships, and our future opportunities.”
Throughout the session, the students were engaged in dynamic discussions and presentations that explored both the light and dark sides of social media. Mrs. Nartey, drawing from extensive research and real-life examples, outlined the many ways in which social media can be used positively. She highlighted how these platforms can help strengthen bonds with loved ones, provide access to new knowledge, showcase talents, and advocate for important causes. Yet, she didn’t shy away from addressing the darker side of the internet. The rise of cyberbullying, toxic online behavior, and the spread of harmful content were major topics of concern.
A significant moment in the training came when Mrs. Nartey touched on the issue of social media addiction. The anonymous survey conducted two weeks prior had revealed that many students struggled with controlling their time spent online. “It’s easy to get lost in the endless scroll,” Mrs. Nartey explained, “but being mindful of our time online is essential for maintaining balance in our lives.”
Practical tips, such as setting time limits on social media apps, identifying and blocking online predators, and reporting suspicious activity, were emphasized. The students were particularly moved by stories of how seemingly harmless online interactions had spiraled into dangerous situations, with some victims facing long-term emotional and psychological harm. These discussions were eye-opening, reminding students that their actions online have real-world consequences.
The training concluded with a lively Q&A session, where students eagerly asked questions about specific scenarios they had encountered online. The enthusiasm and curiosity in the room were palpable. Many students expressed their gratitude for the session, stating that it had opened their eyes to the hidden dangers of social media and armed them with strategies to protect themselves and others. “I’ve learned so much today,” one student said. “I didn’t realize how much social media was affecting my mental health until now. I’m going to be more careful about how I use it.”
Through this initiative, the Great Commission Movement of Ghana continues to demonstrate its commitment to equipping young people with the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. This story of empowerment serves as a beacon of hope, showing that with the right guidance, today’s youth can rise above the challenges of the digital age and use technology to shape a better future.
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