National CERT has formally launched Phase 2 of its CyberSecureGov initiative in Islamabad, marking a significant step in strengthening cybersecurity preparedness across federal government organizations in Pakistan through structured training and institutional capacity building.
The newly launched Phase 2 training is designed as a dedicated and comprehensive program aimed at advancing cyber readiness within federal entities. It is aligned with National CERT Cybersecurity Training Guidelines and forms an integral part of the broader Capacity Building Program being implemented by National CERT. Building upon the foundational work completed during Phase 1, this stage focuses on enabling government organizations to operationalize cybersecurity practices in a sustainable and structured manner. Rather than limiting cybersecurity to a compliance driven activity, the initiative emphasizes embedding security practices into the core operational and governance frameworks of public sector institutions. By doing so, Phase 2 supports the transition toward mature and resilient cybersecurity postures that can evolve alongside emerging digital risks.
A central focus of Phase 2 is strengthening organizational capability by guiding participating entities in establishing dedicated cybersecurity components within their internal structures. The training encourages ministries and departments to formalize cybersecurity roles, responsibilities, and workflows, ensuring that security considerations are integrated into daily operations and long term planning. Through this approach, organizations are supported in shaping internal frameworks that allow cybersecurity to function as a continuous and institutionalized priority. The program also highlights the importance of consistency in policy enforcement, accountability mechanisms, and leadership engagement to ensure that cybersecurity measures are not fragmented or reactive in nature.
The training sessions brought together participants from a wide range of key federal ministries, reflecting a whole of government approach to cyber resilience. Attendees included officials from Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Pakistan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control, Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Communications, and Ministry of Finance. Interactive sessions were delivered by incumbents from multiple directorates of National CERT, who provided practical guidance on applying the Pakistan Information Security Framework, improving security implementation processes, developing comprehensive cybersecurity policies, and establishing effective incident response mechanisms. The sessions were structured to encourage dialogue, scenario based learning, and direct engagement with real world challenges faced by government organizations.
Participants also took part in hands on demonstrations and in depth discussions focused on cyber hygiene, secure use of technology, and both preventive and corrective security measures. This practical exposure allowed attendees to gain clearer insights into how cybersecurity functions can be institutionalized within their respective organizations. Emphasis was placed on adopting a proactive and mature security posture that anticipates threats rather than responding after incidents occur. The discussions reinforced the importance of coordination between technical teams, policy units, and leadership to ensure that cybersecurity efforts are aligned with organizational objectives and national digital priorities.
During the event, Dr Haider Abbas TI, Director General National CERT, addressed the participants and acknowledged their commitment to strengthening national cyber defense. He emphasized the importance of continued collaboration among federal institutions to build a secure and resilient digital environment for Pakistan. Certificates were distributed to participants to recognize the successful completion of the Phase 2 training, reinforcing the role of structured learning and professional development in enhancing government cybersecurity capabilities.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
