Cybersecurity is defined as the protection of computers, digital devices, and software from cyberattacks. However, beyond safeguarding these direct targets, it is equally important to protect individuals—particularly children and young people—who can become indirect victims of cyberattacks.
Lack of awareness about cybersecurity threats and social media risks can lead to serious consequences, including self-harm or harm to others.
One concerning example is the participation of children in dangerous social media “challenges,” which can involve sharing personal photos or engaging in activities that result in physical or psychological harm. While this issue is not unique to Kosovo, one municipality where the YMCA operates recently reported a rise in children engaging in self-harm games circulated on social media.
Recognising the urgency of this issue, YMCA Kosovo partnered with the Department of Education in Gjakova, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bring internet safety awareness programmes to schools. The initiative targeted children aged 8–13 and began at the “Yll Morina” school, a longstanding partner of the YMCA. With the school’s enthusiastic support, the YMCA set up a pop-up Hub in one of the classrooms, transforming it into an engaging learning space.
Sango’s Adventures: An Interactive Approach to Learning
The programme centred around “Sango’s Adventures,” an interactive game and quiz designed to teach children about cybersecurity in a fun and engaging way. Each student received a tablet to play the game, which featured multiple levels and awarded stickers for progress and completion. The game effectively replaced regular IT lessons, with every student in the school participating over two weeks, from November 14th to 29th.
The content for the programme was meticulously researched and adapted by YMCA Kosovo, using resources from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Child Online Protection Guidelines.
YMCA Europe further expanded the initiative by incorporating it into their STEAM Day activities, ensuring the reach and impact extended beyond Kosovo. Each game module aimed to educate children on recognising cybersecurity threats and practicing safe online behaviour.
Positive Impact and Feedback
In total, 550 students completed the course, with the YMCA team present throughout the school day to facilitate the sessions and provide support. Feedback was collected from students to assess their understanding of the material, and YMCA staff engaged with the children, discussing any challenges or questions that arose during the sessions.
The programme received overwhelmingly positive feedback:
“The kids had fun while learning valuable cybersecurity skills. They found the game both fun and educational.” – Ola Zuka, YMCA Hub
“Children these days can be attacked online, and this was a smart and cool way to help them understand some of the dangers. They even told me it was better than their regular IT lessons.” – Alma Spahija
“Combining the gaming element with the digital safety quiz was genius! I saw children engaged and curious, supported by adults who weren’t their teachers or parents. It’s simple but so effective. The larger problem, however, is the access to social media by underage users.” – Adrian Davies
A Model for Future Cybersecurity Education
This initiative demonstrates the power of combining engaging educational tools with strong partnerships. By leveraging innovative resources and addressing a critical issue, YMCA Kosovo provided children with the knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world safely.
The success of this programme highlights the importance of scaling similar initiatives across Europe to ensure a safer online environment for all young people.
Written by Diellza Cermjani (Gjakova Community Hub)