Sunday, 28 September

CSA reacts to 'inappropriate' videos by young SHS graduates, reminds youth of social media's 'long-term consequences'

Education
CSA

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has expressed concern over the increasing trend of inappropriate and irresponsible statements being shared on social media by some recent high school graduates.

The authority said in a statement dated September 25, 2025, they had "observed posts containing indecent language and troubling intentions, including remarks such as "we go scatter them" and declarations about "snatching people's husbands".

"These statements have been widely circulated and are attracting public attention," CSA bemoaned.

The authority reminded "young people, especially recent graduates, that while social media is a powerful platform for expression and networking, it also carries significant responsibilities and long-term consequences".

"What individuals post online becomes part of their permanent digital footprint. Universities, scholarship boards, and potential employers frequently review social media activity as part of their evaluation process. Irresponsible content can severely damage one's academic, career, and professional prospects," CSA explained.

"Beyond reputational harm, such online behaviour can also lead to exposure to cyberbullying, harassment, grooming, and other forms of exploitation. In more serious cases, it may even violate Ghana's cybercrime laws, particularly under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) and the Electronic Communications Act," the authority emphasised.

Thus, CSA encouraged graduates to "exercise caution and maintain decency and respect in their online interactions.

"Social media should be used as a tool for personal development, a place to showcase creativity, promote entrepreneurship, build meaningful networks, and access academic and professional opportunities."

"As Ghana continues to progress in its digital transformation, the CSA emphasises the importance of promoting positive digital citizenship among the youth. Graduates are encouraged to think carefully before posting online, remain aware of the permanent nature of their digital activity, and avoid sharing content that is indecent, harmful, or insulting," the CSA said.

The authority ended by assuring its continued collaboration with key stakeholders, "including the Ministry of Education, civil society organisations, and community leaders, to raise awareness about safe and responsible online behaviour".

Background

In a social media post, three girls appearing to be final-year senior high school (SHS) students on their school dormitory's balcony were seen in a selfie video engaged in worrying call-and-response declarations. One of them said, "Once we are done writing the paper, we will scatter them. Any form-two students we see, we will beat them. We will go to... and the boys will f**k us." As she spoke, the other two echoed the words in rising enthusiasm.

Source: classfmonline.com