Johannesburg – With a significant number of South African children at risk of online violence, exploitation, or abuse, Professor Anke de Beer has launched the Smart Device Licence to prepare learners to use smart devices more carefully.
Globally, experts in education, psychology, child protection, and law enforcement are raising concerns about children’s exposure to online harms.
A 2022 UNICEF report on the matter indicated that a third of children in SA were at risk of such harm.
This is a major concern considering that digital environments are becoming an increasingly significant part of young people’s lives.
In response, Professor De Beer on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, announced the launch of the Smart Device Licence, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to prepare learners to use smart devices more carefully.
“The name is deliberate, like a learner’s licence for driving, signalling readiness before entering a complex digital world,” explained Professor De Beer, a counsellor, speaker, researcher, consultant, and author focused on child protection and digital wellbeing.
Why This Matters
Professor De Beer noted that children were online more than ever.
Social media, messaging apps, and endless content promise connection and entertainment, but they also bring exposure to predators, scams, and harmful content.
“When you give your child a smart device, you don’t just give them access to the world. You give the world access to your child,” said Professor De Beer.
“The Smart Device Licence is about turning that access into a valuable skill for navigating the digital world responsibly.”
The initiative was developed with input from a wide range of experts, including educators, psychologists, and child protection specialists, ensuring it addresses real online risks in a practical and accessible way.
The Smart Device Licence 101 equips children and teenagers to use smart devices responsibly before they receive their first device.
Through interactive lessons, quizzes, and short videos, learners develop the skills needed to navigate digital spaces responsibly.
The initiative is led by Professor De Beer, a counsellor, speaker, researcher, consultant, and author focused on child protection and digital wellbeing.
How It Works
Professor De Beer explained that the Smart Device Licence is an interactive e-learning platform where learners progress through structured modules covering:
- Digital citizenship
- Privacy protection
- Cyberbullying recognition
- Responsible social media use
Healthy device habits
Professor De Beer said there are two levels:
Junior Licence – for primary school learners, focusing on healthy device habits, avoiding harmful content, and responsible digital behaviour
Senior Licence – for high school learners, covering adult content, sharing personal images or messages, cyberbullying, privacy, and the psychology of digital addiction.
“Learners complete modules, take quizzes, and participate in practical exercises,” said Professor De Beer.
“Those who finish receive an official Smart Device Licence certificate. Schools such as Rabboni Christian School in Brits are already using the platform.”
The programme is voluntary, the licence is a milestone, not a legal requirement.
Access
The Smart Device Licence is available to schools, parents, and learners across South Africa.
“The interest we’ve received from schools and parents has been overwhelming,” said Professor De Beer.
“It shows just how important it is for children to be prepared before entering the digital world.”
The licence fee is R115 (including VAT), which provides full access to all modules, exercises, and quizzes.
Content will be updated regularly to reflect emerging apps, digital trends, and legislation.
Website: www.sdl101.com
