The Office of the Information Commissioner (OIC) is reaffirming its commitment to building a strong culture of data privacy as the country observes Data Privacy Month in January.

Information Commissioner, Celia Barclay, said the Month, with the theme ‘Take Control of Your Data’, is being used to intensify public education and awareness around data protection.

This is in keeping with the OIC’s mandate to ensure compliance with the Data Protection Act, while informing, educating and advising the public on their rights and responsibilities.

Speaking during a recent post-Cabinet Press Briefing at Jamaica House, Ms. Barclay noted that Data Privacy Month, and particularly Data Privacy Day on January 28, provides an important opportunity for the OIC to partner with both public and private-sector entities to bring critical information to Jamaicans.

“We have a strong commitment to data privacy, and we are equally committed to working with our partners to raise awareness and understanding among the public,” she said.

The Information Commissioner further noted that one of the OIC’s key strategic objectives is to create a culture of privacy in Jamaica, noting that culture is shaped by behaviour.

“Privacy is about behaviour. We do not change a culture until we change the way people act. It has to become personal to each and every one of us, whether we are operating as a business or interacting as individuals,” Ms. Barclay explained.

She also emphasised the importance of engaging young people in data protection efforts, pointing out that building a sustainable privacy culture must start early.

Ms. Barclay outlined a series of activities planned throughout the Month, targeting various stakeholder groups.

The observance began with a church service on January 11, marking the fifth year of operation of both the OIC and the Data Protection Act.

Other planned activities include a school tour, with visits scheduled for Ardenne High School in Kingston and St. Jago High School in St. Catherine, as well as a major conference at the University of Technology (UTech) Jamaica on January 28.

The conference will focus on strengthening privacy programmes, building trust and addressing digital distrust in an era shaped by technology and artificial intelligence (AI).

Members of the public are encouraged to follow the OIC’s official social media platforms for updates on activities and to actively participate and share information throughout the Month.