Ana Ivanovic: It is important to protect the rights of every child in digital world as well

Belgrade, 1 November 2024— Ana Ivanovic, world tennis star and long-time National Ambassador for UNICEF in Serbia, talked today with students and teachers from primary schools "Branislav Nusic in Belgrade, “Grabovac” in Grabovac, “22 October” in the Belgrade municipality of Surcin, and the "First Obrenovac Primary School" to discuss the importance of digital literacy and protection from digital technology risks.

"Growing up online offers limitless possibilities. Using computers, smartphones, consoles and televisions, children can entertain themselves, learn, and socialize. When used in the right way made accessible to all, the Internet has the potential to broaden the horizons and support children’s creative development. At the same time, the Internet increases children's exposure to numerous risks. That's why UNICEF advocates for equal access to digital technologies and ensuring digital competences for every child," said Ana Ivanovic.

The development of digital skills and awareness of digital risks are key to creating a safe online space, as   highlighted at the event Digital Literacy and Protection from Digital Violence, organized by UNICEF.

Research conducted through UNICEF's U-Report platform shows that only 27 percent of young people in Serbia believe they have a sufficient level of digital skills, while 55 percent feel that they lack support for improvement. Additionally, 39 percent of the respondents stated that they do not have free Internet access or spaces for using computer with Internet  Children cited a lack of equipment, high costs of quality training, and a shortage of teaching staff as the main challenges in improving their skills.

The event emphasized that while the digital environment can be used to access key educational, health and social services, it also presents risks, including online violence, access to harmful content, misuse of private information and other forms of digital violence. This is why UNICEF, in cooperation with the business sector, advocates for creating a safe digital environment through training, digital resources, and connecting schools to the Internet.

"As someone who spends almost every moment on the Internet, I believe that digital literacy is very important. There is increasing danger and misinformation online, which even I sometimes find hard to navigate. I ca only imagine how challenging it must be for kids. Events like this are important to teach children how to critically assess the information they receive, recognize what is good for them, and understand what they should stay away from,'' said influencer Mario Vreco.

UNICEF in Serbia and Yettel company have continued their long-term partnership to further increase internet connectivity and improve the digital skills of students, teachers and parents, thus contributing to a safer and more productive digital environment for children and young people.

"We believe that all children have equal opportunities for education and digital skill development. To support this strategy, choose partners who share our goals and motivation. Our long-term cooperation with UNICEF is one of the most productive partnerships we have. This project alone will reach 60,000 students, parents and teachers. We are pleased to see an increasing number of companies who are getting involved in the topic of digital literacy because together we can achieve the best results," said Milica Begenisic, ESG and Events Manager at Yettel.

Deyana Kostadinova, UNICEF Representative in Serbia, thanked all the participants and said:

"Children's rights in the digital world need a common approach. Governments, the business sector, teachers, professionals, parents, children, and young people must come together to maximize the benefits of the online world and minimize its risks. UNICEF Ambassadors, as role models particularly for children and youth, have a unique power to raise awareness, advocate for the problems and struggles children face, and inspire change. Thank you, dear Ana, for being with us! Partnerships with the business sector, such as Yettel, are essential. Together, we can equip our students and teachers with digital skills for the 21st century, investing in human capital and the progress of society," said Kostadinova.