1.

1 The concept of "online safety and healthy environment" refers to a digital space where users can
interact, share, and engage with content without facing threats to their personal security, emotional
well-being, or privacy. One significant way digital platforms could be safe and healthy for all users is
through the implementation of robust content moderation systems that automatically detect and
remove harmful content, combined with clear community guidelines that promote respectful
interaction. These systems would work to filter out cyberbullying, hate speech, and inappropriate
content while ensuring users have access to age-appropriate material and educational resources.

1.2 "Online community responsibility" refers to the collective duty of internet users to contribute
positively to the digital environment and maintain respectful, constructive interactions online. This
concept is crucial because it establishes a foundation for creating a safe and inclusive digital space where
all users can participate without fear of harassment or discrimination. When users embrace their online
community responsibility, they help create a self-regulating environment that promotes digital
citizenship and mutual respect.

1.3 Two reasons why abuse of social media could be increasing in today's society are the growing
accessibility of digital devices and the anonymity that online platforms provide. The widespread
availability of smartphones and internet access means more people can participate in social media, but
not all users understand the implications of their online actions. Additionally, the shield of anonymity
that many platforms offer can empower some users to engage in harmful behavior without facing
immediate real-world consequences, leading to increased instances of cyberbullying and online
harassment.

1.4 It is important for the youth to be aware of the impact of their actions online because their digital
footprint can have long-lasting consequences on both their personal and professional lives. Every post,
comment, or share contributes to their online reputation, which can affect future educational and career
opportunities. Moreover, their online behavior can significantly impact others' emotional well-being and
mental health, making it crucial for young people to understand the responsibility that comes with
digital citizenship and the real-world implications of their virtual actions.

ACTIVITY 2: A. Prevalence and affected groups

2.1
Impact studies can help us understand how social media abuse is affecting the youth. Firstly,
they can be used to collect information from learners through surveys or interviews to find out
how many have been bullied online. Secondly, these studies can look at social media platforms
to see what types of harmful content are being posted. Thirdly, they can help show how social
media abuse is affecting the mental health of young people, such as causing depression, anxiety
or low self-esteem. Lastly, impact studies can compare data from the past and now to see if
social media abuse is getting worse over time.
2.2
There are many reasons why sports professionals may be targets of hate speech in online
communities. One reason is that they are in the public eye, and people always watch their
actions. Another reason is that when they lose a game or perform badly, some fans get angry and
say hurtful things online. A third reason is that some people attack them because of their race,
gender, or background. Lastly, social media gives people the chance to hide behind fake
accounts and say cruel things without facing consequences.
2.3
Vulnerable groups in society, such as children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, are at
greater risk of experiencing cybercrime. This is because they often do not know how to protect
themselves online. For example, children may not understand the dangers of sharing personal
information with strangers. Older people might be easily tricked by fake emails or scams. People
with disabilities may struggle to use technology safely or understand warning signs. These
groups also may not have access to proper online safety education, making them easier targets
for cybercriminals.
B. Impact on individuals and communities
2.4 Cyberbullying can have serious psychological effects on a Grade 12 learner. One negative
effect is low self-esteem. When learners are bullied online, they start to feel bad about
themselves and may believe the hurtful things others say about them. This can cause them to lose
confidence in their schoolwork and social life. Another effect is depression or anxiety. Learners
who are constantly bullied online may feel sad, scared, or even hopeless. This can lead to them
not wanting to go to school or be around people, and their marks might drop because they are
stressed and not focused.
2.5
Online discrimination can reduce democratic participation in South Africa in different ways.
When people are discriminated against online because of their race, gender, religion, or
background, they may feel excluded or that their opinions do not matter. This makes them less
likely to vote or take part in important discussions in their communities. Discrimination also
creates fear and anger, which breaks trust in the democratic system. If citizens feel unsafe or
unwelcome online, they may stop sharing their views or supporting campaigns. This weakens
our democracy because fewer people are involved in making decisions that affect the country.
2.6
Social media platforms can help create a safer online environment by empowering users with
useful cyber-safe information. Firstly, they can run educational campaigns that teach users how
to stay safe online, such as how to create strong passwords, avoid scams, and report harmful
content. Secondly, social media platforms can provide in-app tools like safety tips, warnings
about fake accounts, and easy reporting systems to help users protect themselves. These steps
can help users feel more secure and reduce online risks.
C. Effectiveness of policies and interventions: print media is under threat?
2.7
The article titled “The Kelly Smith story – from promising student, to charged for selling her
daughter” was written by the Daily Maverick, a well-known South African news publication.
2.8
One possible human rights violation in the article is human trafficking, which is a serious abuse
of a person's right to safety and freedom. The article may also touch on the violation of
children’s rights, as it involves a young girl being put at risk, which goes against the rights of the
child to be protected from harm and exploitation.
2.9
There are a few reasons why young people may find it hard to believe everything written in the
article. First, some articles use dramatic language or titles to get attention, which can make the
story seem less trustworthy. Second, if the article does not show both sides of the story or
provide clear evidence, readers may doubt the facts. Lastly, with so much fake news online, the
youth may question whether the source is reliable or just trying to get more views.
2.10
Print media might become less popular as digital transformation increases in the 21st century.
Nowadays, people prefer reading news on their phones, laptops, or tablets because it is faster and
more convenient. Young people especially spend more time online and often get their news from
social media or digital platforms. However, print media still has value for people who enjoy
reading newspapers or who do not have access to the internet. Even so, if digital technology
keeps improving, more people will move away from printed newspapers
2.11
Posting about discrimination on social media can be very effective in addressing human rights violations.
It helps to create awareness by reaching a large number of people quickly. When someone shares a post
about unfair treatment, others can learn about what is happening and start important conversations. It
also gives victims a chance to speak out and be heard, which can bring support and comfort. Social
media can also push organisations, schools, or the government to take action and fix the problems.
However, it is important that the information shared is true and respectful so that it does not spread
hate or false news.

5.1 Point 1 :Social media helps people share stories about unfair treatment or bullying quickly. When
someone posts about a problem, many people can see it right away. This would then lead to quick
sharing which makes more people be aware of the problem and they can join together to speak up
against it. For example, when students share stories about bullying at school on social media, other
students and parents can support them and take action.

Point 2: Social media platforms give people a safe space to speak up without being afraid. They can use
hashtags and online groups to find others who care about the same issues, causing people to feel safe on
sharing their experiences, more problems come to light and communities can work together to fix them.
Like when workers share stories about unfair treatment at work, others can support them and help make
changes.

5.2 Point 1: Teaching young people how to use social media safely helps them understand what
information is true and what might be fake. This can make students become better at spotting false
information and making smart choices about what they share online. This makes them more responsible
social media users.

Point 2: Social media education shows young people how to use these platforms to make positive
changes in their communities , making youth learn to use social media for good causes, like organizing
community events or raising awareness about important issues, instead of just entertainment.

5.3 Creative Solution: "Social Change Challenge Campaign"

How it works:

1. Create a unique hashtag for a specific social issue (like #CleanCommunityChallenge)

2. People post "before and after" pictures showing how they improved their community

3. Each person challenges 3 friends to do the same within 48 hours

4. Include proof of their positive action

Why this would be effective:

* Makes social change fun and engaging through the challenge format

* Uses the power of social media to spread quickly

* Creates visible proof of impact through before/after photos

* Builds community involvement through friend nominations

* Easy to participate and share

Expected outcomes would be:

* Rapid spread of positive actions across communities

* Visible improvements in local areas

* Increased awareness of social issues

* Community building and engagement

* Long-lasting impact as changes are documented and inspire others

This approach uses social media's viral nature and young people's love of challenges to create real-world
positive change in a way that's both fun and meaningful.

References:
Daily Maverick. (2022). The Kelly Smith story – from promising student, to charged for selling
her daughter. [online] Available at: [Link] [Accessed 25 May 2025].
Department of Basic Education. (2020). Life Orientation Grade 12 Learner's Book. Pretoria:
Department of Basic Education.
Childline South Africa. (n.d.). Cyberbullying and internet safety. [online] Available at:
[Link] [Accessed 25 May 2025].
South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). (n.d.). Your Rights Online. [online]
Available at: [Link] [Accessed 25 May 2025].
Media Monitoring Africa. (n.d.). Understanding digital rights and responsibilities. [online]
Available at: [Link] [Accessed 25 May 2025].
Unicef. (2021). Keeping children safe online: Tips for parents and teens. [online] Available at:
[Link] [Accessed 25 May 2025]