Using children’s personal data legally and securely

The integration of UDISE+ and APAAR in India’s education system aims to streamline data collection for better resource allocation and student tracking. However, this consolidation exposes sensitive child data to various actors, including ed-tech companies, creating significant privacy risks. The current regulatory framework lags behind these technological advancements, leaving compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act uncertain. This shift raises critical legal concerns regarding consent and data minimization. Existing mechanisms often fail to meet the specific, voluntary consent standards required by law, particularly for minors. Without clear protocols defining the roles of data fiduciaries and processors, there is a risk that student data may be shared for purposes beyond those originally authorized, potentially violating fundamental privacy rights established by the Supreme Court. Furthermore, the system lacks robust grievance redressal mechanisms and defined legal liability for the Ministry or third-party handlers. To protect students and ensure lawful data governance, India must establish comprehensive protocols for data sharing, security, and accountability. Updating policies to align with modern data protection laws is essential to maintain trust and safeguard the privacy of millions of students in the digital education ecosystem.

Source: thehindu.com
Published on 2024-07-27

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