One of the most important ways that teenagers are contributing to building a better world with technology is through their innovations. Teenagers are constantly exploring new ideas, challenging existing systems, and creating innovative solutions to social problems. Many of these innovations are designed to improve the lives of others, particularly those in underserved communities.

For example, in Kenya, a group of teenagers founded M-Shwari, a mobile banking platform that provides financial services to people who do not have access to traditional banking systems. The platform has been hugely successful and has helped to bring financial services to millions of Kenyans who previously had no access to them.

Similarly, in Nigeria, a group of teenagers founded a mobile health platform called MDaaS (Medical Devices as a Service), which provides affordable medical equipment and services to rural communities. The platform has helped to improve access to healthcare in these communities, which were previously underserved.

In addition to innovations, teenagers are also using technology to raise awareness about important social issues. Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have become powerful tools for young people to raise their voices and draw attention to issues that are important to them. For example, the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria, which was led by young people, used social media to draw attention to police brutality in the country.

Teens are also using technology to create communities and connect with others who share their interests and passions. Online communities and social media platforms have become places where young people can connect with others from all over the world, share ideas, and collaborate on projects. These communities have helped to foster creativity and innovation among young people, and have provided a platform for them to express themselves and share their voices.

Another important way that teenagers are contributing to building a better world with technology is through their advocacy efforts. Young people are increasingly becoming involved in activism and advocacy, using technology to organize and mobilize their communities. For example, young climate activists like Greta Thunberg and Vanessa Nakate have used social media to draw attention to the urgent need for action on climate change.

In essence, teenagers are playing an increasingly important role in building a better world with technology. From creating innovative solutions to social problems to raising awareness about important issues, to connecting with others and advocating for change, young people are using technology to make a positive impact on the world.

As we move into an increasingly digital age, it is important that we continue to support and encourage the contributions of young people to the technological revolution.

The post Building a Better World with Technology: The Role of Teens appeared first on The African Teen Tech Festival ATTF 2024.

Use Strong Passwords

Using strong passwords is the first line of defense in protecting yourself online. Avoid using common passwords like “password123” or “123456.” Instead, use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols to create a strong password that is difficult to guess.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication

To keep your accounts secure, enable two-factor authentication whenever feasible. This gives your account an additional layer of protection. 

Be Careful with Social Media.

Social media is a great way to connect with friends and family, but it can also be a source of cyberbullying and other online threats. Be careful with the information you share online, and don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your parents or teachers to see.

Keep Your Software Updated

Maintaining your internet security depends on keeping your software updated. Security patches that handle vulnerabilities that could be used by cybercriminals are frequently included in software updates.

Use Antivirus Software

Install reputable antivirus software to protect your computer from viruses, malware, and other online threats. Keep the software updated to ensure maximum protection.

Be Careful with Email

Email is one of the most common ways for cybercriminals to gain access to your personal information. Be cautious of emails from unknown senders and avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from suspicious emails.

Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks can be a security risk, so it’s important to use secure Wi-Fi networks whenever possible. If you must use a public Wi-Fi network, avoid accessing sensitive information and use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your connection.

Be Wary of Scams

Cybercriminals often use scams to trick people into revealing their personal information. Be wary of emails or phone calls asking for your personal information or urging you to take immediate action.

Think Before You Click

Before clicking on a link, ask yourself if it’s from a reputable source. Avoid clicking on links from unknown senders or suspicious websites.

Backup Your Data

Always back up your important data to protect yourself in case of a cyber-attack or data breach. Regularly back up your data to a secure location, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage service.

Cybersecurity is an important topic for teenagers to understand, and learning how to protect yourself online as a teenager should not be taken lightly. As the internet develops and more impressive goals are ticked off lists, there is also a 50-50% chance that some individuals do not have the best interest of others in mind. This is why keeping safe on the internet is more important than ever before. 

The post Cybersecurity 101: How to Protect Yourself Online as a Teenager appeared first on The African Teen Tech Festival ATTF 2024.