Optus is getting behind the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence, which sees schools across Australia say “Bullying. No Way! Take action every day” this Friday.
As part of the day, Optus’ Digital Thumbprint partner Kids Helpline is launching free comic books in schools throughout Australia which helps students, parents and caregivers kick-start the conversation about bullying.
The comic book tells the story about how characters Hiro, Madison and Tyler become involved in sharing a photo online without consent which leads to bullying. Through the comic, children can learn valuable lessons about empathy, how to be an upstander, and where and how to seek further help.
People can obtain a copy of the comic book by clicking here.
In line with National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence, Optus’ Digital Thumbprint program marks an important milestone this March as it celebrates reaching 300,000 primary and secondary students since launching in 2013.
Helen Maisano, Director of Sustainability, Optus said: “The National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence is a really important way to empower young people to be part of the solution when addressing bullying.”
“Since 2013, Optus has been providing free digital citizenship education on to Australian primary and secondary students on important topics such as cyberbullying and respectful relationships online.”
“This March we celebrate reaching the milestone of 300,000 primary and secondary students participating in Optus Digital Thumbprint with Kids Helpline and Optus Digital Thumbprint for secondary schools. Let’s all say no to cyberbullying and take action every day.”
Through interactive workshops, primary school students taking part in Optus Digital Thumbprint with Kids Helpline sessions learn what cyberbullying is and isn’t, positive choices and how to support others when cyberbullying occurs. Importantly, they also learn where to get help and report cyberbullying if things go too far. The Digital Thumbprint workshops for secondary students focus on real-life scenarios of cyberbullying with students talking about their choices as they learn to be ‘upstanders’ and not ‘bystanders’ and say no to bullying.
“Bullying. No Way! Take action every day” gives schools the chance to take action and empower young people to be part of the solution when addressing bullying in their school community. It provides an opportunity to focus on bullying and the big changes we can make to create safer communities for everyone.
About the Digital Thumbprint Program
Optus Digital Thumbprint empowers young people to stay safe online to shape their future for the better. We’re thrilled that through our Digital Thumbprint program, over 300,000 students have learned to be safer and smarter online.
To find out more visit http://www.digitalthumbprint.com.au/
Media enquiries:
Optus Corporate Affairs
(02) 8082 7850
media@optus.com.au
