Miss Fiji calls for mindset shift to build safer online spaces

Changing mindsets around social media use and digital behaviour is critical to creating safer online communities, Miss Fiji Ailava Samuels says, as concerns grow about online harm and misuse of digital platforms.

Ms Samuels, one of seven contestants competing in the Miss Pacific Islands Pageant in Nadi this week, said the internet was originally designed to connect people and broaden understanding, not to divide or harm.

“One thing we know for a fact is that the internet was introduced to connect people,” she said.

“It provides us with sources and resources to learn about other cultures and people around the world, and it helps us communicate, especially with loved ones who have moved overseas.”

She said online safety could not be achieved through technology alone, but required a fundamental shift in attitudes and behaviour.

“The best way to create a safe online community was by changing people’s mindsets and behaviour,” she said.

Ms Samuels is advocating for digital literacy and social media education to be included in Fiji’s core school curriculum.

“I advocate for digital literacy and social media education to be part of the core curriculum in our schools,” she said.

“In schools, students are taught how to use apps, gadgets and technology, but they are not taught how to behave online.”

She said the absence of guidance on online conduct was a major gap that needed urgent attention.

“Freedom of speech comes with responsibility and accountability. Freedom also means knowing when and what to do at the right time,” she said.

“Just because we are given the space to do whatever we want does not mean it is right or acceptable.”

Ms Samuels said positive change would come when users chose to use online platforms responsibly.

“The best way to create online safety is to change our mindsets, our behaviour and how we use online platforms for positive impact rather than negative,” she said.

The Miss Pacific Islands Pageant will culminate in a crowning ceremony at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa on Denarau on Saturday.