The article examines an innovative collaboration-based model aimed at developing digital hygiene culture among students in higher education institutions. The study highlights that effective digital hygiene is not limited to technical skills but also includes awareness of online safety, ethical digital behavior, information filtering, and responsible use of digital resources. By integrating interactive pedagogical strategies, joint teacher–student digital tasks, peer assessment, and reflective learning practices, the proposed model strengthens students’ ability to critically evaluate digital risks and apply safe online practices in their academic and personal activities. The research also emphasizes the importance of institutional support, teacher digital competence, and learner engagement in creating a sustainable digital hygiene culture. The findings suggest that a structured and collaborative approach significantly enhances students’ digital well-being, cybersecurity literacy, and digital responsibility.

Digital hygiene; digital safety; higher education; teacher–student collaboration; digital competence; online ethics; cybersecurity literacy; responsible digital behavior; digital culture; educational innovation.

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