KARACHI:
It is a commendable decision by the Punjab government to restrict social media use for children under the age of 16. In today’s digital age, the excessive use of platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat has become a matter of serious concern. Children spend countless hours scrolling through social media posts and reels instead of engaging in healthy activities or developing meaningful social relationships.
Exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, online predators and misinformation can have damaging effects on their mental wellbeing. Moreover, unrealistic lifestyles and beauty standards promoted on these platforms often lead to anxiety and depression among young users. However, merely imposing restrictions to ameliorate the situation will not be sufficient. Implementation of the ban is as important as the ban itself. Thus, reliable age-verification mechanisms should be made robust. Social media companies themselves should be brought into the conversation and urged to play an active role in creating restriction guidelines on users and content.
As an educationist, I firmly believe that protecting children from the harmful effects of uncontrolled social media use is not a restriction on their freedom but an investment in their future. A balanced strategy based on regulation and digital education can help nurture a healthier, more productive generation.
Muhammad Ahmad Muzakki
Kasur
