Two manufacturers have urged the mass media to engage relevant stakeholders on youths’ responsible use of technology to develop their potential and foster national development.
They made the call on Thursday in Lagos at a symposium which was part of activities of the 2024 Press Week of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Lagos Chapel.
The event had the theme: ‘The Role of Journalism in Addressing the Impact, Opportunities and Challenges of Modern Technology on Youths’.
Mrs Funlayo Bakare-Okeowo, Chief Executive Officer, FAE Envelopes Ltd., said that the world was at a juncture defined by unprecedented technological advancements.
She said that, with young people embracing modern technologies, it had become essential to invest in upskilling them and guiding them to use technologies positively.
According to Bakare-Okeowo, this will help the youth to responsibly harness the full potential of emerging cutting-edge technologies.
She also urged journalists to create more awa
reness on the dangers of negative use of technologies by the youth.
She added that journalists should help the Nigerian youth to be abreast of educational opportunities and funding in technology that would help to develop their skills.
She called for more symposiums and workshops to eradicate to cyber bullying and other forms of negative use of technology.
‘Journalists must publicise initiatives that promote universal and equitable access to technology to drive inclusion,’ she said.
She also urged journalists, particularly investigative journalists, to embrace usage of tamper-proof envelopes meant to safeguard sensitive information.
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She said that envelopes were still very relevant in spite of digitisation.
According to her, certain important documents such as legal papers, certificates, wedding invitations and governmental notices are still sent using physical envelopes.
‘Unlike some digital methods that can be hacked or leaked, physical
envelopes provide a layer of privacy and security, making them relevant for confidential information.
‘Another innovation from FAE is our tamper -proof tear-resistant envelope, this product is best for every investigative journalist.
‘This envelope is tear-resistant and has a feature that indicates when it has been tampered with.
‘This envelope can be used to carry ballot papers to collation centres as the tear-resistant feature helps to ensure security, and once it is tampered with, you will know and all the ballot papers in it can be declared null and void,’ she said.
Mr Saleem Adegunwa, Managing Director of Rite Foods Ltd., said that technology opportunities for youths were abundant through direct access to information, promotion of youth-led initiatives and fostering civic and professional engagements.
Adegunwa was represented by Mr Innocent Adulugba, the Corporate Communications Manager of Rite Foods Ltd.
‘At Rite Foods Ltd., we recognise the critical role journalists play in promoting transparency
, good governance and social justice.
‘Your work inspires us to strive for excellence and accountability.
‘We appreciate your fearless reporting, in-depth analysis and commitment to fact-based storytelling.
‘Your dedication has helped shape public opinion, exposed wrongdoing and brought hope to communities,’ he added.
He said that the company would continue to support press freedom and collaborate on initiatives that would promote media excellence,’ he said.
Source: News Agency of Nigeria