National Cyber Emergency Response Team Pakistan conducted an extensive training session on Building Cyber Confidence in Women at the Female Campus of Riphah International University. The session was organized under the newly launched Security Awareness for Female Empowerment and Resilience initiative, known as SAFER, which forms part of a broader capacity development effort focused on addressing the digital challenges faced by women. National CERT designed the program to highlight the growing concerns related to online harassment, stalking and digital scams, and to help participants strengthen their awareness regarding safe online practices, consent and emotional resilience. The initiative aims to encourage a more respectful and secure digital environment by equipping women with skills that support confident navigation of the online world.
The session created an interactive space where participants could openly discuss common online risks and learn how to identify and respond to them in real time. Through practical examples, guided discussions and scenario based explanations, attendees were able to expand their understanding of cyber threats that women are more likely to encounter across academic, professional and social platforms. National CERT emphasized the need for informed and cautious digital engagement, highlighting how proactive steps can help individuals maintain safety when interacting on social media, communication apps or digital workspaces. Faculty members and students welcomed the format, noting that the training provided clarity on issues that often remain unaddressed despite increasing dependence on digital platforms.
Mr Khurram Javed, Director Capacity Building at National CERT, led the session and spoke about the importance of awareness and collaboration in building a more secure digital culture. He encouraged participants to take an active role in promoting digital safety within their institutions, families and communities. His remarks highlighted the collective responsibility of individuals, educators and organizations in fostering an environment where safe digital behavior is practiced consistently. His engagement throughout the session helped connect concepts with practical habits that attendees could adopt immediately, making the training relevant for both personal and academic needs. Many participants expressed that the session helped them recognize overlooked risks and improved their confidence in managing online interactions.
National CERT stated that the SAFER initiative will continue to expand across diverse communities of women through upcoming sessions planned in multiple educational institutions and social groups. The organization aims to reinforce the idea that digital resilience strengthens overall participation in academic and professional spaces and contributes to broader national awareness. By providing consistent training opportunities, National CERT is working toward establishing a more inclusive foundation for cybersecurity education, ensuring that women have equal access to knowledge and support mechanisms that enhance digital wellbeing. The SAFER program reflects ongoing efforts to build a more informed society where individuals understand both their digital rights and responsibilities, ultimately contributing to a safer online environment for women across Pakistan.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
