As children spend more time online than ever before, experts are warning that digital spaces can expose young users to serious risks if they are not properly prepared.
South African anti trafficking advocate and child counsellor Prof Anke de Beer has launched the Smart Device Licence, an interactive e learning initiative designed to help children develop responsible digital habits before receiving their first smart device.
Inspired by the concept of a learner’s licence for driving, the programme equips learners with the skills they need to safely navigate social media, messaging apps, and online environments.
Why This Matters
One third of South African children face the risk of online violence, exploitation, or abuse, according to a 2022 report from UNICEF. Globally, experts in education, psychology, child protection, and law enforcement have raised urgent concerns about children’s exposure to online harms as digital environments become an increasingly significant part of young people’s lives.
“When you give your child a smart device, you don’t just give them access to the world. You give the world access to your child,” says Prof Anke.
“The Smart Device Licence is about turning that access into a valuable skill for navigating the digital world responsibly.”
The initiative was developed with input from a wide range of experts including educators, psychologists, and child protection specialists, ensuring the programme addresses real online risks in a practical and accessible way.
How It Works
The Smart Device Licence is an interactive e learning platform where learners progress through structured modules covering:
- Digital citizenship
- Privacy protection
- Cyberbullying recognition
- Responsible social media use
- Healthy device habits
There are two levels available for learners.
Junior Licence
Designed for primary school learners, focusing on healthy device habits, avoiding harmful content, and responsible digital behaviour.
Senior Licence
Designed for high school learners, covering topics such as adult content, sharing personal images or messages, cyberbullying, privacy, and the psychology of digital addiction.
Learners complete modules, take quizzes, and participate in practical exercises. Those who finish receive an official Smart Device Licence certificate.
Schools such as Rabboni Christian School in Brits are already using the platform.
The programme is voluntary and the licence is intended as a milestone rather than a legal requirement.
Expanding Access
The Smart Device Licence is available to schools, parents, and learners across South Africa.
Discussions are currently underway with organisations including:
- The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI)
- Suid Afrikaanse Onderwysersunie (SAOU)
- Federation of Governing Bodies of South African Schools (FEDSAS)
- Independent Christian Organisations (ICO)
These partnerships aim to expand access to the programme nationwide.
“The interest we’ve received from schools and parents has been overwhelming,” says Prof Anke.
“It shows just how important it is for children to be prepared before entering the digital world.”
The licence fee is R115 including VAT, providing full access to all modules, exercises, and quizzes. Content will be updated regularly to reflect emerging apps, digital trends, and legislation.
About Smart Device Licence 101
The Smart Device Licence 101 equips children and teenagers with the skills they need to use smart devices responsibly before receiving their first device.
Through interactive lessons, quizzes, and short videos, learners develop the confidence and awareness needed to navigate digital spaces safely.
The initiative is led by Professor Anke de Beer, a counsellor, speaker, researcher, consultant, and author focused on child protection and digital wellbeing. She has worked extensively with schools, parents, faith networks, and law enforcement, supporting children at risk of abuse, addiction, and digital exploitation.
For more information visit
www.sdl101.com
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