Bethlehem: In a new step aimed at raising awareness among youth about the dangers of digital violence and shedding light on this critical issue, a group of midwifery students from Bethlehem University carried out an awareness initiative on digital violence. This effort is part of the “We Rise” project, implemented in partnership between the Psychosocial Counseling Center for Women and the War Child organization.
The initiative, on its first day, targeted students of the Shepherds High Schools in Beit Sahour, focusing on the challenges faced by adolescents in the era of modern technology. Two additional schools in the Bethlehem Governorate will also be targeted as part of the initiative.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about the physical and psychological changes adolescents go through, leading to discussions about the dangers of digital violence. It seeks to educate students about the risks of online violence, particularly cyberbullying and digital extortion, equipping them with the necessary knowledge on how to prevent such threats. Additionally, the initiative provides information on the relevant authorities for reporting incidents, filing complaints, and seeking assistance.
The students responsible for implementing the initiative expressed their pride in delivering this project, emphasizing that the experience contributed significantly to developing their leadership and planning skills. This event represents an important step in strengthening the role of educational and community institutions in addressing digital challenges, while equipping the new generation with the tools needed to protect themselves from the growing risks in the digital world.
This initiative is the result of training youth groups in the Bethlehem and Hebron governorates on gender-based violence and introducing them to protection service providers. The training aimed to inspire initiatives that highlight local social issues related to the rights of women, girls, and children.