National Cyber Emergency Response Team of Pakistan actively participated in a high level seminar on Creating Safer Digital Spaces hosted by National University of Sciences and Technology NUST in Islamabad. The event brought together leading public and private sector stakeholders to discuss coordinated measures aimed at improving digital safety standards and strengthening responsible online practices across the country.
The seminar served as a collaborative platform for engagement between key organizations including UNICEF Pakistan, Telenor Pakistan, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency NCCIA, and Digital Rights Foundation. Representatives from these institutions shared insights on emerging cyber risks, online protection mechanisms, and the need for inclusive policies that safeguard internet users, particularly young people and vulnerable communities. The dialogue emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in promoting secure digital environments at a time when online activity continues to expand across education, business, and social interaction sectors in Pakistan.
National CERT was represented by Mr. Syed Imran Haider, Assistant Director Trainings, who addressed participants as a keynote speaker. In his remarks, he underscored the growing need for widespread cybersecurity awareness and proactive threat mitigation strategies. He highlighted that strengthening digital resilience requires not only advanced technical infrastructure but also informed users who understand cyber risks and adopt responsible online behavior. He stressed that coordinated efforts between government entities, academia, industry, and civil society are essential to building a secure digital ecosystem capable of responding effectively to evolving threats. Mr. Haider also elaborated on National CERT’s initiatives focused on capacity building, incident response preparedness, and professional training programs designed to enhance technical competencies across institutions.
During the session, discussions also explored the importance of embedding cybersecurity principles into academic environments to equip students with the knowledge required to navigate digital spaces safely. Participants noted that universities play a significant role in shaping digital literacy and fostering responsible online conduct among youth. By engaging academic institutions such as NUST, National CERT aims to reinforce its outreach efforts and encourage long term collaboration that supports research, awareness campaigns, and skill development programs. The emphasis remained on building structured partnerships that can address cyber challenges through information sharing, coordinated response mechanisms, and continuous learning.
National CERT reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening national cyber resilience through strategic engagement with stakeholders across multiple sectors. Through participation in forums such as this seminar, the organization continues to support awareness initiatives and promote best practices that contribute to safer, more secure, and inclusive digital spaces for citizens throughout Pakistan.
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