Dear Editor – I am writing to address one of the growing concerns that generate stress to parents and guardians of high school students.
As huge numbers of high school students acquired touch mobile phones for study purposes, I have seen this as helpful for communication and significant to obtain information related to their academic studies and social interaction with friends online through social media platforms.
On the other hand, there are negative factors that need to be seriously considered and sought solutions to address, as high usage of mobile phones by high school students will slow down their academic performances, affecting their health, increase anxiety, exposure to inappropriate content by accessing unfiltered content, and they will spend less time face-to-face social interaction.
There are a number of cases that occurred because of cyber-bullying.
Not only that, but begging for money to purchase data, is another extra burden for parent and guidance.
However, Our Telekom and Bemobile are the two major companies providing internet service.
Lately, we have had Star Link introduced in Honiara and soon will go down to the rural communities.
Therefore, I wish to make a call to relevant authorities, heads of schools, and teachers to create some measures to protect this fast-growing issue.
An immediate review of school rules should be considered, as should the establishment of cyber legislation to mitigate such issues.
As a concern, Solomon Islander, the safety of our children and citizens is paramount. I hope the authorities will consider this concern and promptly address it.
Yours faithfully
Suesta Ngelea
USP
Solomon Island Campus
