Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Paragon International University proudly celebrates Mr. Ensophea Toch, a Master of Science in Computer Science student, for being selected as a winner of the ASEAN-IPR Youth Essay Competition on Preventing Violent Radicalisation. His achievement highlights his contribution to regional discussions on youth resilience, responsible technology, and peacebuilding.
Ensophea’s winning research, titled “Artificial Intelligence for Peace: Strengthening Youth Resilience Against Online Violent Radicalisation through Ethical AI Governance and Digital Literacy in ASEAN,” explores how digital platforms, social media, and online communities influence young people’s vulnerability to violent radicalisation. It examines the dual role of artificial intelligence (AI), which can contribute to the spread of harmful online narratives but can also support prevention efforts when developed and used responsibly.
His research highlights practical ways AI can contribute to peacebuilding, including identifying harmful narratives, supporting multilingual fact-checking, and helping address misinformation. However, he emphasizes that technology alone cannot prevent violent radicalisation. Ethical AI governance, digital literacy, critical thinking, and human oversight are essential to protecting individual rights while building safer and more inclusive online communities.
The essay also underscores the importance of regional cooperation across ASEAN, where differences in language, digital literacy, and technological development create unique challenges. Ensophea advocates for stronger collaboration among governments, technology companies, educational institutions, and youth organizations, alongside initiatives that empower young people to become responsible digital citizens and active contributors to peacebuilding.
Reflecting on his experience, Ensophea shared:
“Participating in the ASEAN-IPR Youth Essay Competition and Course on Preventing Violent Radicalisation was a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas with more than 36 participants from ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea. As an essay winner from Cambodia, I was honoured to contribute to discussions on peacebuilding, youth resilience, and the responsible use of technology.
As an AI and data science practitioner, I believe that artificial intelligence, digital literacy, and critical thinking can play important roles in preventing online radicalisation and promoting peace. This experience has strengthened my commitment to advancing AI for Peace and empowering young people to become responsible digital citizens who contribute to a safer, more inclusive, and resilient ASEAN community.”
Following his selection as a competition winner, Ensophea participated in the ASEAN-IPR Youth Course on Preventing Violent Radicalisation Among Youth and attended the award ceremony in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia, from 12-14 October 2026.
Organized by the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR), the programme brought together participants from ASEAN Member States and the Republic of Korea. It provided opportunities for young participants to exchange perspectives, deepen their understanding of preventing violent radicalisation, and explore ways to strengthen youth resilience through regional dialogue and collaboration.
Paragon International University congratulates Mr. Ensophea Toch on this remarkable achievement and is proud to celebrate his contribution to regional discussions on responsible AI, youth empowerment, and peacebuilding.