Digital literacy important for netizens, say experts

Social media users need to be careful of what they share on social networks during office hours as experts called on the need to develop strict guidelines at the second day of the GCC Government Social Media Summit.

A session on ‘Ethics and Etiquette for Social Media’ discussed ways to help employees understand what can be shared on social networks.

“An employee might sometimes share a picture taken during an office presentation or workshop and post it online. While this might be ordinary, it may contain some information, which proves to be valuable for a competitor. This is the reason companies need to tell employees what is acceptable and what is not acceptable,” according to Ali Awadallah, project manager, Knowledge Point Educational Consultant.

He called on companies to develop an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) which promotes the idea of ‘being accountable’ when using social media and digital technology at work. One such initiative, which promotes responsible use of social media, was introduced in UAE schools this year.

Thousands of students at the Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) took part in a digital literacy course, which was developed in line with UAE laws and culture.

Ali said: “The programme is designed to help produce digitally literate and responsible citizens who possess awareness about cyber safety and e-communication culture.” The two-day summit also included talks on information security, social business, open government data and effective use of social media for governments.

Elise Bijon from the UN World Food Programme shared insights on several campaigns run by the organisation.

Speaking at a session on building partnerships through social media, she said:

“Social media provides outreach, networking and fundraising opportunities. It can be used to create awareness which in turn plays an important role in developing a link with people.”

muaz@khaleejtimes.com