Senator issues social media warning

Acknowledging that we live in a technological era, Senator Irene Sandiford-Garner warned students of the Charles F. Broome Memorial Primary School against the incorrect use of social media.

Her warning came as she addressed the students at their graduation ceremony, which took place at the Hilton Hotel recently.

“I want to warn you against using social media for negative and non-productive purposes. All of you know how to use cell phones; use them for phone calls, research and reading articles that interest you,” Sandiford-Garner said.

She noted that in these current times, students were often seen using social media for the wrong things as some young people were seen in videos or pictures, engaging in acts that would bring shame to them, their family or their schools, and using abusive and offensive language.

Sandiford-Garner reminded the young children that whatever they do, record and put on social media would remain there.

“Imagine growing up, and you’re probably in an important job, or settled with a family, one day seeing embarrassing videos of yourself appearing online. You could be living in any part of the world and that beautiful life you have created for yourself could come crashing down because of something you did as a young person,” she said.

Sandiford-Garner went on to tell the students to carry their “S.W.A.G” with them wherever they went. She noted that their success, willpower, attitude and goals were all components of their “S.W.A.G” and expressed that this was something that they should hold onto as they progress through life.

To the parents, the Senator encouraged them to continue to support their children or guardians as it will take more effort as they go into secondary school.

“They are your charges and you must do whatever you have to, to ensure that these bright, motivated young people remain that way. The older they get, the harder it will become. Good parenting is hard work, but the effort is worth it,” she said.