National Cyber Emergency Response Team of Pakistan successfully conducted a cybersecurity awareness training session at Rawalpindi Women University as part of its Security Awareness for Female Empowerment and Resilience Program. Organized in collaboration with Dukhetran-e-Pakistan, National Commission on the Status of Women Islamabad, and Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, the program focused on equipping female students with essential knowledge to navigate digital environments safely while addressing the growing concerns surrounding Technology Facilitated Gender Based Violence. The initiative aimed to promote awareness of cyber threats, provide practical safety measures, and build resilience among young women in Pakistan’s digital spaces.
The session was attended by Minister of State for Federal Education and Professional Training Wajiha Qamar as the Chief Guest, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering digital safety, women’s empowerment, and cybersecurity awareness among youth. The training was led by Zaheema Iqbal, Assistant Director Advisory and Communications at National CERT, and concentrated on recognizing and addressing cyber harassment and online abuse that disproportionately affects women. Key topics included cyberstalking, impersonation, image based abuse, and the emerging risks of AI generated content being misused to intimidate, harass, or silence women. Participants were briefed on national reporting channels and referral mechanisms for timely support and redress, ensuring students were aware of the resources available for protection.
Through interactive discussions and scenario based insights, the training emphasized practical steps female students can take to secure their online presence and protect personal information. Participants were encouraged to develop vigilance around suspicious digital activity, maintain privacy controls, and support each other in creating safer online spaces. The session also highlighted the importance of cultivating digital literacy and awareness as integral components of broader female empowerment efforts. By combining technical guidance with social support, National CERT aimed to strengthen resilience among students while reinforcing a culture of safety and responsibility in digital interactions.
The program underscored National CERT’s ongoing commitment to promoting cybersecurity awareness across Pakistan, particularly within vulnerable and underrepresented groups. By focusing on female students, the SAFER initiative aligns with broader objectives to mitigate cyber risks, address gender based digital challenges, and enhance protective mechanisms for online communities. Officials emphasized that continued engagement, capacity building, and awareness programs are essential to safeguarding national digital infrastructure while empowering women to confidently participate in the country’s growing digital ecosystem. The training at RWU reflects a coordinated effort to ensure that public sector institutions, civil society organizations, and educational institutions work together to foster a safer and more resilient online environment.
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