Child Protection Ambassadors Program: Training, Certification, and Impact
14th March 2025, Kathmandu
In today’s digital age, children are increasingly exposed to the online world, whether for education, entertainment, or social interaction. While the internet offers countless opportunities, it also poses significant risks, including online child sexual abuse, cyberbullying, sexting, and cyber grooming. The International Foundation for Digital Child (IFDC) is on a mission to protect children from these growing dangers.
Child Protection Ambassadors Program
Through their Child Protection Ambassadors Program, IFDC is empowering individuals to become advocates for digital child safety in their communities.
If you’re passionate about safeguarding children in the digital space, this is your opportunity to make a difference. In this article, we’ll explore the details of the Child Protection Ambassadors Program, its objectives, and how you can get involved. We’ll also discuss the upcoming session by Anil Raghuvanshi, Founder and President of ChildSafeNet, Nepal, who will be sharing his expertise on addressing online child abuse in the age of artificial intelligence (AI).
What is the Child Protection Ambassadors Program?
The Child Protection Ambassadors Program is a comprehensive initiative by IFDC aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to protect children from online threats. The program focuses on preventing online child sexual abuse, promoting digital well-being, and empowering children and parents to navigate the digital world safely.
Key Objectives of the Program:
Educate and Train: Provide in-depth training on digital safety, online child sexual abuse, and digital rights.
Empower Communities: Equip ambassadors to lead projects and initiatives that raise awareness about online child protection.
Foster Digital Resilience: Help children develop the mental resilience needed to handle negative online interactions.
Collaborate with Experts: Offer access to workshops, seminars, and expert-led training sessions.
Program Structure and Topics
The Child Protection Ambassadors Program spans two months and includes four online seminars, each lasting at least one hour. Participants are required to attend all sessions and complete an interview process to become certified ambassadors. The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
1. Understanding Online Child Sexual Abuse
Global trends in online child sexual abuse.
Types of online child sexual abuse materials.
The role of online chatrooms in facilitating child abuse.
Prevention strategies at various levels.
Digital security and hygiene for children and parents.
Collecting digital and offline evidence for law enforcement.
Digital rights of children.
2. AI and Online Child Sexual Abuse
Detecting and addressing AI-driven abuse.
The impact of AI on child safety and digital rights.
3. Child Psychology and the Internet
Digital mental well-being as a fundamental human right.
Psychological empowerment of children affected by online abuse.
Strategies to strengthen mental resilience in children.
4. Prevention Strategies for Online Chatrooms
Identifying red flags in online interactions.
Educating children and parents about safe online practices.
Tools and resources to monitor and manage chatroom use safely.
What Does It Mean to Be a Child Protection Ambassador?
As a Child Protection Ambassador, you will play a crucial role in safeguarding children in your community. IFDC has outlined clear expectations for ambassadors:
1. Project Organizer & Leader
Organize and implement at least two voluntary projects, such as school seminars, youth camps, parent discussions, awareness campaigns, or film screenings.
2. Progress Reporter
Regularly update the IFDC National Organizer in Colombo on project progress.
Promote activities via social media according to IFDC guidelines.
3. Digitalwise Club Founder
Establish and lead a “Digitalwise Child” club in your local community.
Host monthly meetings to discuss the responsible use of digital devices.
4. Ongoing Learner
Participate in workshops, discussions, and expert-led training to enhance your understanding of digital safety.
What Does IFDC Offer?
IFDC provides extensive support to its ambassadors, ensuring they are well-equipped to carry out their roles effectively. Here’s what you can expect as a Child Protection Ambassador:
In-depth Online Training: Comprehensive training on preventing online child sexual abuse and promoting digital well-being.
Certification and Recognition: A certificate of completion, recommendation letters, and an official appointment letter.
Identity Card: A Child Protection Ambassador Identity Card.
Fellowship Opportunities: Recommendations for further training and fellowships.
IFDC-branded Merchandise: Branded T-shirts and other materials.
Networking Opportunities: Access to IFDC events and collaboration with fellow ambassadors.
Who Can Apply?
The Child Protection Ambassadors Program is open to individuals who are passionate about protecting children in the digital space. Here are the eligibility criteria:
Young graduates, child protection officers, children’s rights advocates, or anyone with a strong interest in online child safety.
Fluency in Sinhala or Tamil is required, and proficiency in English is an added advantage.
Organized, motivated individuals who can work independently.
Strong advocates for safeguarding children in the digital world.
Special Session by Anil Raghuvanshi
We are excited to announce that Anil Raghuvanshi, Founder and President of ChildSafeNet, Nepal, will be delivering the fourth session of the Online Child Protection Advocates Program. The session, titled “Addressing Online Child Abuse and Safeguarding Digital Rights in the Age of AI,” will provide valuable insights into how artificial intelligence impacts child safety and digital rights in the online space.
Anil Raghuvanshi is a renowned expert in the field of child protection, and his session promises to be both insightful and impactful. This event is open to all and mandatory for advocates. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in child safety.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a difference and become a Child Protection Ambassador, apply today! Visit the IFDC website for more details: www.ifdchild.org.
Apply now: https://shorturl.at/j3XIE
For more details: https://shorturl.at/so4DT
Join the Program Link on WhatsApp: https://lnkd.in/gr9JtF7k
Conclusion
The Child Protection Ambassadors Program by IFDC is a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact in your community. By becoming an ambassador, you will not only gain valuable knowledge and skills but also contribute to creating a safer digital environment for children. With the support of experts like Anil Raghuvanshi, this program is set to empower individuals to tackle the challenges of online child abuse head-on.
Join the movement today and help protect the next generation from the dangers of the digital world. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient future for our children.
For more: Child Protection Ambassadors Program
