Fourah Bay College (FBC) was abuzz with purpose today as students gathered for a landmark dialogue on ending digital violence against women and girls.

The event held in collaboration with UNFPA, UN Women, the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCCC), and the Ministry of Gender and Children’s Affairs brought together experts, youth leaders, and advocates for a day of learning, reflection, and collective action.

Mr. Victor A. Sesay from the NCCC delivered the keynote address, urging young people to speak out against online abuse and to serve as protectors of one another in digital spaces. “The fight against digital violence is not just the responsibility of institutions; it is the duty of every internet user,” he stressed.

Representatives from partner organizations, including the Government of Iceland and the World Health Organization, emphasized the dual nature of the internet highlighting it as both a powerful tool for empowerment and a potential space of harm when vigilance is lacking.

dynamic panel of youth advocates and digital safety experts engaged students in frank discussions on online protection, responsible digital behaviour, and the collective responsibility to safeguard dignity online.

questions and committing to concrete actions aimed at fostering a safer and more inclusive digital environment. Their enthusiasm and resolve reflected a growing movement among young people to reclaim the internet as a space of respect, safety, and empowerment.

The event marks a significant step in Sierra Leone’s broader efforts to combat digital violence and promote a culture of accountability and protection online, particularly for women and girls.