Data protection when learners use online labs
Online learning platforms collect some data, such as names, email addresses and progress. Schools have a duty to protect learners' personal information.
Know your law
Many African countries now have data protection laws, for example Kenya's Data Protection Act (2019), Nigeria's Data Protection Act (2023) and South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act. Most follow similar principles: collect only what you need, keep it secure, and use it only for its purpose.
Practical steps for schools
- Minimise data. Use only the information needed to create accounts.
- Use school-managed accounts. Avoid learners signing up with personal social media accounts.
- Secure logins. Keep account lists safe and change passwords when staff leave.
- Inform parents. Explain which platforms the school uses and why.
- Get consent where required, especially for younger learners.
Questions to ask any provider
- What data do you collect, and why?
- Where is it stored?
- Who can access it?
- How can we delete it?
Accounts on vr-labs.ru
Virtual Laboratories accounts are created and managed on vr-labs.ru, operated by VR Labs under its own terms and privacy policy. Read them and keep a copy in your school records.
On this website
Our Privacy Policy explains what VR Labs Africa collects on this site.
Train staff
A short briefing on data protection for all staff who manage accounts reduces risk significantly.
Book a demo to discuss account set-up for your school.