Public discussions have intensified following reports that the government is considering measures that could restrict internet access for children under the age of 18. The proposal has generated widespread debate among parents, educators, technology experts, and the general public over its potential impact on digital literacy, education, and responsible online engagement.
Adding his voice to the conversation, Mr. Albert Naa, Chief Executive Officer of Norgence Digital Solutions, has welcomed the national discussion, describing it as timely in light of the increasing misuse of the internet by some young people. However, he believes that any policy introduced should be carefully designed to strike a balance between protecting children and preserving opportunities for learning and innovation.
Speaking on the BlueWaves Radio Breakfast Show, Mr. Naa argued that setting the restriction at below 18 years may be too broad. Instead, he suggested that policymakers consider an age threshold of around 13 or 14 years, noting that many teenagers aged 16 and 17 possess the maturity and discipline to use digital platforms responsibly.
According to him, many young people in this age group are already leveraging the internet for educational purposes, entrepreneurship, research, programming, and skills development, making meaningful contributions to society through responsible online engagement.
“Some young people who are 16 or 17 years old are mature enough to use the internet responsibly and can contribute significantly to development in various fields,” he explained.
Mr. Naa also urged policymakers to distinguish between access to computers and unrestricted access to the internet when formulating any regulatory framework. In his view, encouraging computer literacy while implementing appropriate safeguards for internet use would better prepare children for an increasingly digital world.
He further advised parents to reconsider the types of devices they provide for their children, suggesting that educational tools should take precedence over entertainment-focused gadgets.
“Personally, as a parent, instead of buying a smartphone for your child, I would rather buy them a computer or laptop,” he stated, emphasizing the role of technology in education and productive learning.
Despite advocating a balanced approach, Mr. Naa expressed concern about the growing dependence on the internet among many young people and the wider population. He warned that excessive and uncontrolled use of digital platforms can lead to addiction, reduced productivity, and exposure to harmful online content.
He therefore called for greater collaboration among government, parents, schools, and technology stakeholders to promote responsible digital citizenship, online safety, and healthy internet habits rather than relying solely on restrictive measures.
As conversations around internet regulation continue, stakeholders are expected to weigh the need to protect children from online risks against the importance of ensuring they have access to the digital tools and skills necessary to thrive in the modern world.
Source: BlueWavesonline.com | Maurice Duncan |Bolgatanga
