SEAMEO Regional Open Learning Centre (SEAMOLEC) commemorated its 27th anniversary with an international webinar titled "Ensuring Internet Safety, Safeguarding Your Online Journey." Recognizing the importance of digital learning, the webinar aimed to address the challenges by creating a platform for collaborative learning and knowledge-sharing. This event contributes to building a safer and more secure digital world for everyone. The webinar was held online via SEAMOLEC YouTube channel on Tuesday, February 27, 2024.
The webinar was specifically designed to raise awareness about the threats and vulnerabilities in the online world. It sought to empower individuals with practical skills to enhance their online security, promote responsible online behavior, and foster international collaboration in addressing global cybersecurity challenges.
The webinar featured 4 speakers from various countries, each addressing crucial aspects of digital security. Mr. Aribowo Sasmito from MAFINDO, Indonesia, discussed combating false information in the era of artificial intelligence. Ms. Lai Cheng Wong from SEAMEO Regional Centre for Science and Mathematics (RECSAM), Malaysia, focused on digital well-being and media and information literacy. Prof. Dr. Paulina Pannen from Universitas Terbuka (UT), Indonesia, explained the do's and don'ts in going digital. Dr. Rudolf Anthony A Lacerna from Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) discussed cyber wellness in open flexible and distance learning. The topics covered cybersecurity fundamentals, the new media environment in the digital age, privacy protection, children and online safety, digital literacy, legal aspects of online safety, and emerging technologies and risks.
Adding to the richness of the event, Dr. Wahyudi, the Director of SEAMOLEC delivered welcome remarks, and Mr. John Arnold Siena, the Deputy Director of Program & Development at SEAMEO Secretariat in Thailand, officially opened the webinar. Additionally, Mr. Didi Rustam, Head of the Administrative Subdivision at the Secretariat of the Directorate General of Higher Education, Republic of Indonesia, provided a special address as a support from the Ministry to this initiative.
The webinar, guided by Tri Kurnia Revul Andina, a lecturer at Yogyakarta State University, proceeded smoothly. Not only did she steer the webinar seamlessly, but she also facilitated the question-and-answer session. Speakers and the moderator interacted well, fostering a mature discussion. The enthusiasm of the participants was evident in the lively comments on the SEAMOLEC YouTube channel. The post-live session statistics indicated that over 600 viewers had watched the webinar.
SEAMOLEC expressed its hope that through such celebrations, it could continue to raise awareness among the general public about the importance of security in the increasingly digital world. Users were urged to be vigilant amidst the proliferation of digital misinformation to create a safer digital environment. SEAMOLEC acknowledged the need to utilize technology wisely, especially in education. In line with these efforts, SEAMOLEC committed to organizing similar webinars throughout the year, covering various relevant topics.