Optus empowering Forbes Public School students to stay safe online

On Wednesday 6 March 2019, Forbes Public School participated in Optus’ Digital Thumbprint program, a free in-school program that supports young people to be safe, responsible and positive online.

Since 2013, the government accredited Optus Digital Thumbprint program has educated over 300,000 primary and secondary students across Australia on how to be safer and smarter online.

Tom O’Dea, Optus’ Territory Manager for Central West New South Wales, said he was thrilled to bring the program to Forbes Public School to teach grade 6 students the power they have when it comes to what they choose to share online.

“The Optus Digital Thumbprint program educates students on the advantages of having a positive online presence in a fun and interactive way through free in-school workshops,” Mr O’Dea said.

“The workshop at Forbes Public School focused on safety in the digital world, which involved taking grade 6 students through the skills of creating strong passwords, enabling privacy settings on social media, and understanding just how easily and far things can spread when shared on the internet.”

“The program was led by trained facilitators, empowering students to be digitally educated and responsible; ensuring an understanding of how they can shape their future for the better,” Mr O’Dea added.

Forbes Public School Principal, Nicole Livermore, said: “Students and staff would like to say a big thank you to the Optus representatives who attended Forbes Public School today to present the “On the road with Optus” road show.”

“Selected students participated in STEM activities including virtual reality and robotics. All students who attended have an interest in technology and found the sessions engaging and stimulating.”

“This was a great opportunity for our school as we are situated in a rural area and often aren’t exposed to these experiences," Mrs Livermore added.

Optus empowers the next generation to learn, achieve their potential and enjoy a bright future. Optus Digital Thumbprint is completely free for schools and does not promote any Optus products or services.
 

Images: Forbes Public School students participating in Optus’ Digital Thumbprint Program.

Media enquiries:

Kaylah Bulow
Optus Corporate Affairs
media@optus.com.au
Tel: (02) 8082 7850