YouTube allocates $20M toward a digital literacy education program for teens

"This funding will power a brand-new, multilingual, open-source resource center and curriculum, backed by a global Ipsos study of more than 9,500 teens to ensure we're meeting the needs of young people, especially in the age of AI."

"YouTube said the resource center will equip teens, parents and caregivers with the confidence to build healthy relationships with technology. In addition, it will focus on a range of key elements, including healthy artificial intelligence interactions and mental health assistance."

"Platform executives have argued that restriction is not the answer because restrictive actions won't stop kids from accessing risky social media platforms or websites. Instead, executives have said that governments should accept the role the internet plays in the modern interactive process, and legislation should be aimed at educating youngsters on the risks and dangers."

YouTube announced a $20 million global initiative in partnership with Google.org to combat negative impacts of online exposure on teens. The program includes a multilingual, open-source resource center and curriculum developed using insights from a global Ipsos study of over 9,500 teens. The initiative addresses digital literacy gaps by equipping teens, parents, and caregivers with tools to build healthy technology relationships, with particular focus on artificial intelligence interactions and mental health support. Rather than implementing restrictions, platform executives argue that education is more effective, as internet access is now foundational to modern interaction. Well-resourced platforms like YouTube are enhancing digital literacy programs to help young users understand and avoid online risks.

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