In a concerted effort to combat online child sexual exploitation and abuse (OCSEA), APLE recently hosted a pivotal awareness event for 104 students from Chong Khnies secondary school and Pour un Sourire d’Enfant in Siem Reap. Held on December 20 and 22, 2023, this initiative marked a significant step towards empowering the youth with essential knowledge and strategies for safe online navigation.
Supported by the World Childhood Foundation of Sweden, the event was designed to arm children with a comprehensive understanding of online risks and the various forms of online child sexual exploitation. It aimed to foster a proactive approach among students, enabling them to seek help and report any suspicious activities effectively.
A select group of participants were provided with additional technical support, enhancing their capacity to further disseminate this crucial knowledge among their peers and relatives. This peer-to-peer education model amplifies the impact of the event, ensuring that the message of online safety resonates within the community.
APLE’s ongoing collaboration with key stakeholders underscores a shared commitment to safeguarding children in the digital age. Through educational initiatives like this, APLE is not only raising awareness but also equipping the next generation with the tools they need to protect themselves and others from the dangers of online exploitation.
With every effort, we move closer to creating a safer online environment for our children, ensuring they can explore, learn, and connect in a secure digital landscape.
