Yei Youth Trained on Responsible Internet Use for Peace and Empowerment

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – More than 48 young people from various youth groups across Yei River County have completed a three-day digital skills training aimed at promoting responsible internet use, digital communication, and access to online opportunities.

The training, organised by the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter, brought together youth representatives, civil society organisations, government officials, students, community leaders, women representatives, and religious leaders. Participants received practical lessons in digital literacy, online communication, and the safe, ethical, and productive use of the internet.

Speaking after the training on Wednesday, youth representative Raymond Dudu Charles said participants gained valuable skills that would enable them to use digital platforms to access education, employment, and business opportunities.

He noted that the training also highlighted the dangers of misinformation, hate speech, and other forms of unethical online behaviour that can fuel conflict and division within communities.

“We have learned to use social media responsibly, avoid spreading false information, and communicate in ways that promote peace and development,” Raymond said.

He expressed confidence that the knowledge acquired would help reduce cyber-related offences among young people and encourage responsible digital engagement across communities.

Another participant, Jeniffer Nyoka Justin, said the training strengthened her understanding of digital communication and responsible social media use.

According to Jeniffer, the skills gained will help young people utilise digital platforms for education, entrepreneurship, and professional development rather than engaging in harmful online activities.

She called on organisers to continue offering similar programmes, stressing that digital skills require continuous learning to keep pace with rapidly changing technology.

Jeniffer also encouraged fellow youth to embrace innovation and apply digital knowledge to improve their livelihoods while contributing positively to national development.

Meanwhile, Gaga Frank Justin, Chairperson of the Yei River County Youth Association , commended the Internet Society South Sudan Chapter for supporting youth digital empowerment initiatives in the county.

He urged participants to put their newly acquired skills into practice by using the internet responsibly and promoting peace, innovation, creativity, research, and education.

Gaga further appealed to young people to reject cybercrime, hate speech, misinformation, and any online content that could incite violence or create divisions within society.

The training comes at a time when internet access and digital technologies are increasingly becoming essential tools for education, entrepreneurship, communication, and community development, highlighting the need for responsible and constructive online engagement among South Sudan’s youth.