The summer workshops at the Popular University of Alcalá de Guadaíra included a cybersecurity day for minors, in collaboration with the Red Cross and its Click_a programme.
The auditorium of the Popular University of Alcalá de Guadaíra became a virtual classroom this Tuesday where the youngest learned to navigate safely on the internet. The initiative, part of the municipal summer workshops, was supported by the Red Cross and its Click_a programme, focused on reducing the digital divide.
Age-Appropriate Content
The instructors divided the participants into groups according to their age to tailor the content to each stage of childhood. Thus, the children were able to address topics such as identity theft, the risks of sharing personal data, and how to identify secure websites. All of this was done through participatory dynamics and games that encouraged discussion.
The Education delegate, Pablo Chain, highlighted that these complementary activities "not only entertain the little ones, but also provide a great contribution to their personal development and sociability." He also announced that in the coming weeks there will be meetings with the Local Police, National Police, Firefighters, the Music Band, or the Chess School, along with visits to the Museum, the Harinera del Guadaíra, and the Oromana Park.
Raising Awareness Among Parents
The Red Cross emphasised the importance of involving families in digital education. "It is essential to alert parents about the need for supervision and parental control in light of the increased use of screens," sources from the organisation stated. Therefore, the Click_a programme reaches out to schools, institutes, and associations to disseminate parental control tools and practical advice.
During the day, the minors participated in a debate where they expressed their preferences and exchanged tips on how to detect if a website is appropriate or if it could be a scam. "What worries them most is that someone impersonates them on social media," explained one of the instructors.
Virtual Reality and Digital Games
The day was not only educational but also fun. The children were able to experience 3D glasses for virtual reality, an activity that, according to the organisers, "was the most enjoyable for them." They also enjoyed educational digital games that reinforced the concepts learned.
For interested parents, the Town Hall reminds that the summer workshops at the Popular University continue throughout August, with places still available for new enrolments. Registrations can be made at the UP headquarters or through its website.

