Relive the Workshop on Digital Citizenship and Cyberbullying Prevention

Digital technologies have expanded opportunities for learning, communication, and participation for children and young people across the Americas. At the same time, they have introduced new challenges related to online safety, well-being, and digital interactions. To help address these issues, the Educational Portal of the Americas hosted the first workshop of the Inter-American Forum "Safe Schools in the Digital Age," focused on fostering safe and respectful digital environments for students.

The session featured Katya Vera, Officer in the Cybersecurity Section of the Inter-American Committee against Terrorism (CICTE) of the Organization of American States (OAS), who examined cyberbullying through the lens of digital citizenship, well-being, and human rights. Participants explored the characteristics of cyberbullying, its manifestations across social media, messaging applications, gaming platforms, and other digital spaces commonly used by young people.

Throughout the workshop, attendees discussed key concepts related to digital safety, the factors that contribute to cyberbullying, and the impact that online violence can have on mental health, academic performance, and social participation. Participants also exchanged experiences and perspectives on the challenges educational communities face in preventing, identifying, and responding to cyberbullying.

Among the recommendations highlighted during the session were the importance of promoting digital citizenship education, fostering trust between educators and students, implementing clear response protocols, and strengthening skills for the safe and responsible use of technology.

Watch the Recording

If you were unable to attend the live session or would like to revisit the discussion, you can access the recording and download the workshop materials below.

📄 Download the presentation

As part of the workshop resources, participants were introduced to "Report, Block, and Support: Prevention and Response to Digital Violence in Schools," a practical guide developed to help educational communities respond to incidents of digital violence, from listening and documenting evidence to reporting, protection measures, and ongoing support.

Looking Ahead

As part of the 25th anniversary of the Educational Portal of the Americas, this workshop marked the beginning of the Inter-American Forum "Safe Schools in the Digital Age," a series of events that will continue exploring key issues related to online safety, digital citizenship, and well-being within educational communities throughout the Americas.

We invite educators, school leaders, policymakers, families, and other members of the educational community to stay connected and participate in upcoming Forum activities as we work together to build safer, more respectful, and more inclusive digital environments for all.