When people learn to be digital citizens

Learning to be a digital citizen is a long journey, requiring patience, adaptability, and collaboration between the government and the people. Throughout this journey, it's crucial to help people see the benefits of digital transformation in their lives so that they can actively participate.

The rapid development of digital technology is gradually changing every aspect of social life. From learning, work, public administration, commerce, and social communication, everything is closely linked to the online environment. In this context, the concept of digital citizenship is receiving more attention. Currently, a high percentage of people use smartphones and the internet. This is an important foundation for implementing nationwide digital transformation. However, a segment of the population, especially the elderly, manual laborers, and those living in remote areas, despite having internet-connected devices, lack the skills to utilize the benefits of digital technology and are limited in their use of online public services or electronic payments.

As a newcomer to technology, Ms. Nguyen Thi Be Tu (62 years old), residing in Binh My commune, shared: “I’ve had a smartphone for two years now. Before, I used it to make calls and see my children and grandchildren. My phone has the VNeID app installed, but I didn’t know how to use it. Thanks to the young people who guided me, in the last few months I’ve learned how to use VNeID when going for medical checkups and checking my health insurance information. Now I don’t need to carry any documents when I go anywhere.” Ms. Le Thi Hong (60 years old), residing in Long Xuyen ward, shared: “When using my phone to connect to the internet, my daughter showed me how to book bus tickets, order food, and register for medical checkups, and I find it very convenient.”

Electronic payment methods are a popular choice for many people.

It's not just the elderly; young people, upon accessing and realizing the practical benefits that technology brings to their lives—such as faster document submission, more convenient shopping, and easier access to medical care—will want to learn and adapt to digital technology. Mr. Ngo Thanh Toan, residing in Long Xuyen ward, said: “Working in the field of information technology, I have been exposed to many digital transformation activities and learned about new technologies. The digital age is bringing young people opportunities for development, clearly demonstrated by how they are harnessing the power of technology to serve their studies, work, and business… Learning and working have become more flexible, personalized, and efficient, saving time and increasing productivity.”

To support people in accessing digital technology, previously, each member of the community digital technology team went to each household to guide them in installing applications, creating electronic identity accounts, registering for vaccinations, and paying electricity and water bills online, effectively contributing to narrowing the gap and bringing technology closer to the people. To continue creating favorable conditions to support people in accessing and effectively using online public services and digital platforms, the Provincial Youth Union has deployed volunteer teams to support local authorities in implementing the two-tiered administrative model and digital transformation in 102 commune-level administrative units, focusing on densely populated communes, wards, special zones, remote areas, ethnic minority areas, border areas, coastal and island areas, and areas lacking technological infrastructure… People, especially the elderly and those with limited exposure to technology, often feel hesitant when accessing online public services and technological conveniences. With the support of the youth union members, everyone becomes more confident and proficient in subsequent uses.

Learning to be a digital citizen is not just about learning how to use technology, but also about learning how to live safely and responsibly in cyberspace and developing skills to identify online scams. In recent years, a series of online scams, impersonating government agencies to steal assets and violate personal data, have caused widespread concern. According to a 2024 cybersecurity survey conducted by the Technology Committee of the National Cybersecurity Association, one in every 220 smartphone users is a victim of fraud. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen monitoring and surveillance to detect cybersecurity risks early. Accordingly, it is crucial to promote public awareness campaigns to encourage people to be vigilant, avoid publicly sharing personal information online, and prioritize protecting their privacy on their accounts.

Text and photos: MY LINH

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/khi-nguoi-dan-hoc-lam-cong-dan-so-a424664.html