“The internet is a powerful tool—how we use it defines who we are. Digital citizenship means choosing integrity, empathy, and responsibility every time we log on.”

In today’s fast-paced, interconnected world, being a responsible digital citizen is just as vital as being a conscientious member of society. Dr. Ujwala Jagdale, Chairman of Marigold International School Bengaluru, underscores the importance of cultivating digital responsibility in education—an effort that begins with quality digital literacy curriculum and awareness.

Dr. Jagdale’s educational philosophy is rooted in her upbringing. Raised in a nurturing environment that valued learning, she was encouraged from an early age to pursue academic excellence. Over the years, this foundation has empowered her to become a transformative force in Indian education. Under her leadership, Marigold International School has evolved into a center for holistic online safety education, fostering academic achievement and emotional and social growth.

Balancing her professional responsibilities with personal commitments, Dr. Jagdale attributes her success to mindful time management, self-care, and strong support systems. She encourages educators and students alike to celebrate small milestones and practice self-compassion. Her vision is to shape minds and nurture well-rounded individuals equipped to thrive in every sphere of life, including the increasingly complex digital world—with training in screen time management in schools.

The Pillars of Digital Citizenship

At Marigold International School, digital citizenship is foundational to the educational journey. Dr. Jagdale and her team believe that instilling principles of responsible digital behavior is crucial for preparing students to engage meaningfully—and safely—in online environments. The school’s digital citizenship in schools program emphasizes six essential pillars: Online Safety, Digital Literacy, Digital Etiquette, Rights and Responsibilities, Digital Health, and Digital Access.

1. Online Safety and Security
   According to Dr. Jagdale, online safety is the bedrock of digital citizenship. In an era of rising cyber threats, students must be equipped to safeguard their digital identities. This forms the core of responsible internet use for students. They are taught to use strong, unique passwords and activate two-factor authentication where available. They learn to recognize phishing attempts, identify suspicious links, and avoid sharing personal information such as addresses or financial details. Privacy settings on social media are also reviewed regularly to ensure control over what is shared and with whom. These practices help create a more secure and confident digital experience as part of student cyber safety tips.
    
2. Digital Literacy
   With overwhelming information available at the click of a button, digital literacy becomes an indispensable skill. Dr. Jagdale stresses that students must be able to evaluate and critically believe credible sources, cross-check facts, and recognize misleading or sensational content. This is the essence of digital literacy curriculum in schools. They explore tools such as fact-checking websites and browser extensions that help identify misinformation. This emphasis on analytical thinking empowers them to become informed consumers and responsible sharers of information.
    
3. Digital Etiquette
   Respect and empathy are not limited to physical interactions—they extend into the digital realm. Dr. Jagdale believes that respectful communication online is essential for maintaining a healthy digital community. This connects directly to promoting safe social media for kids. Students are encouraged to avoid inflammatory language, refrain from making offensive comments, and be mindful of cultural differences. They are also taught to give proper attribution when sharing or referencing others’ work. By promoting respectful digital dialogue, the school cultivates an atmosphere where all voices are valued.
    
4. Digital Rights and Responsibilities
   In the digital world, rights come with responsibilities. Dr. Jagdale highlights the importance of understanding and respecting digital laws, platform policies, and ethical standards. Students are made aware of the implications of sharing content—particularly content that may infringe on others' privacy or propagate misinformation. Understanding the terms of service of websites and applications allows users to make informed decisions about their digital behavior. This forms a key element of teaching digital rights and responsibilities. Additionally, students are encouraged to report harmful or illegal content, reinforcing their role in maintaining a safe and constructive online environment.
    
5. Digital Health and Well‑being
   Excessive screen time, social media pressure, and digital fatigue are becoming pressing concerns for young users. Dr. Jagdale emphasizes that digital health must be integral to our educational approach. Students are guided on setting screen time limits, curating their digital environments to minimize distractions, and using technology as a tool for learning and creativity rather than passive consumption. Regular breaks, mindfulness practices, and physical activity are integrated into their routines to ensure a balanced and healthy lifestyle. This supports digital wellness in education.
    
6. Digital Access and Equality
   Digital equity is a cause close to Dr. Jagdale’s heart. She believes technology should be an equalizing force, not a dividing one. Marigold International School supports initiatives that promote wider internet access, digital resources for underserved communities, and inclusive content for all learning styles. This contributes to digital access and equity education. By advocating for accessible platforms and encouraging the use of open educational resources, the school is contributing to a more inclusive digital landscape. Bridging the digital divide ensures that every student, regardless of background, has the tools to succeed.

Responsible Social Media Use

Social media, while offering opportunities for connection and expression, also presents challenges that require thoughtful navigation. Dr. Jagdale emphasizes the responsible use of technology as a culmination of all digital citizenship principles. Students are encouraged to fact-check content before sharing, protect others’ privacy, and consider the long-term impact of their digital footprint. This practice supports safe social media behavior for kids. Engaging mindfully on social media, avoiding harmful interactions, and reporting cyberbullying or inappropriate content are essential to maintaining a healthy online presence. The school also promotes digital detox practices and encourages students to balance online and offline experiences, central to responsible digital online habits.

Empowering Future Digital Citizens

Under Dr. Jagdale’s visionary leadership, Marigold International School is not merely educating students about the online world but empowering them to responsibly shape it. By embedding digital citizenship into the curriculum, the school is nurturing a generation of informed, ethical, and empathetic learners.

“Our goal is to ensure that our students are equipped not just with academic knowledge but with the digital awareness and resilience to navigate today’s complex online environments with confidence and integrity,” says Dr. Jagdale. “By practicing the principles of digital citizenship, we not only protect ourselves but also contribute to a safer, more inclusive digital world.”

As technology continues to evolve, so must our understanding of how to use it responsibly. Let us all—educators, parents, and students alike—commit to being responsible digital citizens because the future of our digital society depends on the choices we make today.