New course tackles misinformation, digital privacy in schools

A new initiative aims to address the growing concerns over misinformation and digital privacy by equipping high school students with essential social media literacy skills.

 The programme will focus on helping young people navigate the digital landscape responsibly, ensuring they understand the impact of social media on mental health, communication and society.

The course, Social Media Literacy Seminar (SML 100), will teach students to identify misinformation, protect their digital privacy and engage in ethical online behaviour.

With social media playing a dominant role in shaping public opinion, the initiative seeks to empower students to become informed and responsible digital citizens.

European Business University (EBU) has partnered with the Uamuzi Foundation and Amnesty International to offer the scholarships, targeting schools across the country.

"We will be paying the first 100 to attend and complete the course Sh100 each. If we get more funding this can be expanded," says EBU President Dr James Muli.

The online course will consist of two four-hour sessions, covering key topics including identifying misinformation, where students will learn to spot false information online and use fact-checking tools to verify content.

It will also focus on digital privacy and security, teaching students strategies to protect personal data and recognise online threats, including phishing and cyber scams.

 

At the same time, the course will explore how social media algorithms influence what users see and how to diversify information sources to avoid echo chambers.

Ethical online behaviour will also be a key part of the curriculum, with students learning how to prevent and respond to cyberbullying and navigate social media with respect and responsibility.

 Muli said the initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need to prepare young people for the challenges of an increasingly digital world.