Rapid Emergency and Cyber Team, REACT, organized an expert session focused on strengthening cybersecurity for critical infrastructure by hosting Dr. Iftikhar Rasheed, a Top 2% Scientist, NCERT Pakistan Fellow and OT and ICS Security expert. The session, titled “Securing Critical Infrastructure: Cyber Physical Systems Threats and Defense,” was held on July 19, 2026, bringing together students, faculty members, researchers and industry professionals interested in understanding the evolving cybersecurity challenges facing operational technology environments. According to REACT, the event was designed to encourage knowledge sharing and promote greater awareness of cyber physical systems security, an area that continues to receive increasing attention as organizations modernize industrial operations and essential services.
During the session, Dr. Rasheed discussed the changing threat landscape surrounding cyber physical systems and the measures organizations can adopt to strengthen resilience against emerging cyber risks. According to REACT, the presentation focused on practical strategies for protecting operational technology and industrial control systems that support critical infrastructure across multiple sectors. Participants were introduced to key concepts related to OT and ICS security, including the importance of identifying potential vulnerabilities, improving defensive capabilities and developing resilient technology environments capable of supporting uninterrupted operations. The session also highlighted how collaboration between academia, industry and cybersecurity professionals can contribute to strengthening national cyber resilience by improving awareness and technical expertise among current and future practitioners.
REACT stated that the event provided attendees with practical insights into the growing importance of securing industrial environments as cyber threats continue to evolve. Students and researchers had the opportunity to gain a broader understanding of the risks associated with cyber physical systems, while industry professionals were able to explore approaches for improving the protection of operational technology infrastructure. According to the organization, discussions emphasized that cybersecurity for critical infrastructure requires continuous learning, technical preparedness and the adoption of security practices that address both information technology and operational technology environments. The event also encouraged dialogue among participants regarding current cybersecurity challenges and the importance of expanding technical knowledge through professional engagement and educational initiatives.
As part of the event, REACT presented a Shield of Appreciation and a Certificate of Appreciation to Dr. Iftikhar Rasheed in recognition of his contribution to the cybersecurity community and his participation as the session’s keynote expert. The honors were presented by REACT President Talha Haneef and Vice President Ambreena Munir. REACT also expressed its appreciation to all attendees for their active participation and engagement throughout the session. By bringing together experts, educators, researchers and students, the event reflected the organization’s continued efforts to promote cybersecurity education, encourage professional collaboration and support discussions focused on protecting critical infrastructure and strengthening cyber physical systems security across Pakistan.
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