"TikTok" as a battlefield between education, privacy and children's freedom

The last decision of the Government of Albania to ban the use of TikTokat the national level for one year, comes as a result of the lack of education and prevention measures in schools that are facing a new wave of challenges directly related to the use of TikTokfrom the students. Dangerous and destructive challenges, such as damaging public property, filming conflicts between peers or spreading bullying through published videos, have become disturbing phenomena.

This stop year should be accompanied by information and education at the national level for young people about the use of social networks, transforming their use from disruptive methods to that of digital education as used in many countries.

In an age where technology and social networks have changed the way young people communicate, learn and express themselves, platforms like TikTok-u are increasingly being put in the center of criticism for the problems that are spreading in schools. TikTok-u has become one of the main means of entertainment and expression for young people. However, viral challenges, videos glorifying dangerous behavior and toxic content have raised alarm among teachers and parents. The last tragic case in Albania and dozens of other cases in Kosovo, Albania and the countries of the region have led to an increase in vandalism, harassment and inappropriate behavior in some schools, often linked to viral trends in TikTok.

Overall, social networks have changed the way young people communicate and interact, but they are increasingly emerging as a serious challenge for schools and education. Many of the viral trends and rapidly spreading content have created troubling problems in school environments fueled by meaningless challenges to mental health issues related to social pressure and social media addiction.

While some countries are proposing to ban platforms such as TikTok-u, the problem is deeper than an app. The question is not whether we should stop TikTok-un, but how can we educate young people and give teachers the right tools to raise awareness and responsibility.

Many teachers feel unprepared to deal with the problems arising from the use of social networks. This is why teacher training is vital. They must understand the impact that technology has on student behavior and have the tools to address the challenges that arise from this. Training teachers to identify and intervene in cases where students are negatively affected by social networks is a necessary step.

Institutions must play a key role in creating a generation that is aware and able to use technology safely and responsibly. Through a combination of education, support and legal regulations, it is possible to address the negative impacts of social media and create a safer and healthier environment for young people.

This is not only a task for schools, but a responsibility for the whole society.

Prohibition of TikTokut in schools may seem like a quick fix, but is it really the solution? The problems facing schools run deeper than a single application. They reflect a broader crisis of values ​​and education that needs to be addressed by all of society, from parents and teachers to the technology companies themselves.