Sarvodaya-Fusion joins hands with Google

Be Internet Awesome training for students in Katupotha, Kuliyapitiya and Puttalam

Sarvodaya-Fusion, the ICT for development arm of the Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement, is working with Google to bring  the ‘Be Internet Awesome’ programme to Sri Lanka. 

Be Internet Awesome is Google’s free programme designed to teach kids the fundamentals of digital citizenship and safety in a fun and engaging format so they can explore the online world with confidence. It also includes resources for educators and families.

The programme is set to be carried out nationally, in conjunction with the Education Ministry and Information and Communication Technology Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA).

Sarvodaya-Fusion General Manager Maithree Malwattegoda said, “With learning moving online during the pandemic, the need for children, parents and teachers to have a better understanding of safe and ways to use the internet is greater than ever. This is why we are thrilled to be able to introduce this global programme to Sri Lankan children, with this collaboration with Google.”

Be Internet Awesome is an activity-based programme with five lessons on being Internet Smart, Internet Alert, Internet Strong, Internet Kind and Internet Brave. The programme will be conducted online and offline due to the uncertainties currently faced by the nation. A web game called ‘Interland’ has also been developed to test the children’s knowledge on the lessons provided in the programme.

Google Government Affairs and Public Policy Manager Nick Bauer said, “At Google, we believe that technology can be a force for good - unlocking creativity, fostering expression and imparting skills that help children and young people build their futures. But at the same time, we recognise that technology can also create risks. We are happy to partner with organisations like Sarvodaya-Fusion to help protect children while also enabling them to play, express themselves and learn online. We would also like to extend our appreciation to the Education Ministry and ICTA for their collaboration.”