As part of its growing nationwide initiative to promote cybersecurity awareness and digital safety, the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has conducted an interactive awareness session under its Cyber Care for Children (CCC) program at Islamabad Model College for Girls (IMCG), F-6/2. This session marks a significant effort under the broader Cybersecurity Capacity Building Program, which is designed to help the younger generation navigate the increasingly complex online landscape with confidence and caution.
The CCC initiative is focused on empowering school-going children with essential knowledge and practices for safe internet use. Recognizing that children today are more digitally connected than ever before, National CERT is actively reaching out to academic institutions to promote responsible digital behavior, reduce online risks, and prepare students for a safe and positive online experience.
The awareness session was led by Mr. Khurram Javed, Director Capacity Building at National CERT, who engaged the students in a lively and informative discussion on various cyber threats and how to defend against them. His training focused on core concepts such as identifying online threats, protecting personal data, practicing secure browsing, and using strong password hygiene. The session also included hands-on guidance on recognizing phishing scams and safeguarding online identities.
Special attention was given to topics that directly affect teenagers and children, such as privacy on social media, digital etiquettes, the safe use of smartphones and online games, and managing screen time. Mr. Javed stressed the importance of being aware of the psychological and emotional impact of cyberbullying and online harassment, which many students may face silently. He encouraged students to report incidents of cyber abuse and reach out to trusted adults or support systems if they ever feel unsafe online.
A notable highlight of the session was the emphasis on digital empathy and accountability, encouraging students to not only protect themselves but also act respectfully and responsibly in their online interactions. Discussions on the role of privacy settings, device security, and the implications of sharing personal information online gave students a broader understanding of how their actions in the digital space can have real-world consequences.
The response from the students was highly enthusiastic. Many shared personal stories and asked insightful questions about online risks they’ve encountered, showcasing a growing awareness among the younger generation about the importance of cybersecurity. Their active participation also highlighted the need for more such sessions across educational institutions to reinforce safe internet habits at an early age.
Through initiatives like Cyber Care for Children, National CERT is setting a precedent for how public sector organizations can proactively address cybersecurity literacy in schools. As part of its continued efforts, the team plans to expand this program nationwide, engaging students, parents, and teachers to collectively build a culture of digital resilience and safety.
In a world where the internet is both a tool and a risk, programs like CCC are crucial for preparing youth to become informed, cautious, and responsible digital citizens. National CERT’s leadership in this space demonstrates a clear commitment to nurturing a safer digital environment for the next generation of Pakistanis.
