Rubaga Catholic Diocese Chancellor, Fr Pius Male, is advising parents to monitor their children’s use of technology to prevent distractions from life’s realities. He emphasized the potential negative impact of technology on the future generation during a New Year’s Day sermon on behalf of Kampala Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere.
Fr Male, accompanied by Lubaga Diocese Parish Priest Fr Achilles Mayanja and his deputy Fr Steven Mayanja, expressed concerns about the dangers children face with unregulated technology use. Despite acknowledging technology’s inevitability, Fr Male stressed the importance of parents maintaining their roles in guiding the younger generation.
The sermon aligns with Pope Francis’s message advocating for the responsible use of technology to promote peace and prosperity rather than contributing to destruction. Fr Male urged people to consider the message they convey through technology, emphasizing the need for responsible use.
Fr Male highlighted children’s inability to control themselves with technology, urging parents and adults to ensure they guide the younger generation. He cited instances where children rely on phones even for basic tasks, emphasizing the importance of providing guidance in the face of advanced technological skills.
Prof Jane Mulema, Chairperson of Interim Lubaga Cathedral National Foundation, echoed Fr Male and Pope Francis’s warnings about technology, emphasizing the potential regrets parents may face in the future if they do not act now to protect their children from the negative impacts of technology.
Fr Mayanja praised Christians for their support throughout 2023, with Archbishop Ssemogerere expressing gratitude for the Catholic community’s dedication to prayer and praise. He encouraged continued trust in God, emphasizing divine support for those who believe.
The Ministry of Children’s Department highlighted concerns about children’s exposure to harmful content, including pornography and verbal abuse, during the lockdown. While acknowledging the role of technology in facilitating learning during this period, the department advised parents to supervise their children’s use of electronic devices to mitigate potential risks.
