By Henrietta Afful,Rebecca Ampah

Copyright gbcghanaonline

By: Rebecca Ampah

A cyber security expert, David Gyedu, has called for urgent regulations on the use of social media in Ghana, stressing that the platforms are being misused for insults rather than innovation and development.

Speaking on GTV Breakfast Show, Mr. Gyedu lamented the negative turn social media has taken in the country, contrasting Ghana’s usage with China’s emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

“When you go to China, they are using the STEM education very well. So they are challenging themselves everyday on new things. But here we are challenging ourselves everyday on an insult, how to come after people. That’s why we are challenged ourselves,” he said.

According to him, while social media has created connectivity and global exposure, its misuse is redefining Ghanaian culture and undermining productivity. He warned that excessive insults and unfiltered content online are eroding values and distracting the youth from seizing real opportunities.

Mr. Gyedu cited examples from countries such as Togo, where governments have introduced applications to filter online content, suggesting that Ghana must also explore regulatory frameworks to sanitize the digital space.

“We need regulations on the social media. We need regulations to what trended on our media. We need to be well monitored. Has to be well filtered,” he emphasized.

He also called for mentorship and education on responsible social media use, noting that unchecked comments can destroy careers, affect mental health, and weaken national productivity.

Mr. Gyedu urged young people to look beyond content creation for fun and insults, and rather channel social media towards research, education, skill development, and entrepreneurship.