Youth Internet Governance Forum (YIGF) 2024 Future of the Internet

Last August 22-25, 2024, one of SISFU's outstanding students from the Data Analytics program, Jay Daniel Tizon, had the distinct honor of representing the institution at the prestigious Youth Internet Governance Forum 2024 (YIGF) in Taipei, Taiwan. This globally renowned event brought together students, professionals, and thought leaders to engage in critical discussions on the future of internet governance, digital safety, and the transformative power of emerging technologies on online platforms. Dane joined the event with Southville International School and Colleges (SISC) Dean, Dr. Aris Ignacio alongside other students and staff. This has contributed to a strong collaborative presence from the Southville network. Here’s what Dane had to say about this experience:

“Attending YIGF 2024 in Taipei was an eye-opening experience as I learned about the complexities of internet governance and the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach. No single entity should control the internet, and while this model promotes freedom and security, it also has challenges such as unequal influence and slow consensus-building. The internet is more than a platform; it’s an interconnected society - one which faces governance issues similar to the real world - and teaching digital mannerisms and safety to children is crucial. I also realized the impact of internet fragmentation, which can protect users but also isolate communities and complicate global coordination. Finally, AI plays a vital role in preventing scams, and organizations must work harder to protect user identities in this digital age.”

For Dane, participating in YIGF, supported by his peers and faculty, was not just an opportunity to represent SISFU but also a chance to grow as a future leader in the digital field. Events like these are vital in equipping students with the skills, insights, and global perspectives necessary to make meaningful contributions to the evolving digital ecosystem. At SISFU, we believe that through participation in international platforms, our students are better prepared to become the innovators and leaders who will shape a safer, more inclusive, and democratic internet for future generations.