Jamaica to establish a committee to safeguard kids from dark online platforms

Kingston, Jamaica: The Jamaican government gave a green light for the idea to establish a “National Child Online Protection Committee,” so as to ensure the safety of children in the virtual environment. 

Education, Youth and Information Minister – Fayval Williams noted the COVID-19 outbreak has made everyone realise the significance of online learning, adding that it has now become a pivotal component in providing education to the students. 

The Minister noted that while the technology provides tremendous advantages, it also creates several challenges, adding that, “It has become important for the children to access the tools which would guarantee their safety as they grow in this digital age”. 

The Cabinet has also given the nod for the development of a National Sourcing Policy – (NSP) and as well as for the establishment of a Policy Steering Committee in order to drive the Policy’s development.

The Minister further highlighted that although Foreign direct investment – (FDI) has played a significant part in the economic development of Jamaica, but it’s impact differs across the various sectors, noting that “there’s a high need to improve the multiplier effect in terms of improved living standards and sustainable development”. 

Minister Williams stated that NSP would seek to sustain the operations via the development of commercial partnerships and enhanced linkages between the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises – (MSMEs) and companies investing in the island. 

This policy endeavours to establish a government of Jamaica policy position which will support the inclusion of sectors that could exponentially contribute to the more extensive economy.

The Minister following the statement cited that, “The National Sourcing Policy – (NSP) would promote the creation of an enabling environment which will strengthen and sustain the economic growth and development of Jamaica through strategic and focused initiatives that encouraged and incentivised the use of local inputs in key domestic industries”.