National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) of Pakistan recently conducted an extensive cybersecurity capacity building training session at the Information Services Academy (ISA) in Islamabad. This initiative, organized under its Cybersecurity Capacity Building Program, was executed in strict alignment with National CERT Training Guidelines to bolster operational and strategic cyber threat management across various government organizations. The primary objective of the session was to enhance the national defense posture by equipping public sector officials with the necessary tools to safeguard sensitive digital assets. By focusing on a structured approach to security, the program aims to ensure that government institutions remain resilient against the growing sophistication of global cyber threats that target critical information systems and public services.
The training program saw active participation from senior officials representing Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Pakistan along with its key attached departments such as Press Information Department (PID), Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), and the host institution, Information Services Academy (ISA). The curriculum was meticulously designed to offer practical insights into the complete lifecycle of threat management, including advanced threat identification, comprehensive risk assessment, and effective mitigation strategies. Participants engaged with modules that addressed both human-centric vulnerabilities, such as social engineering, and technology-driven risks like systemic breaches. This holistic focus on proactive defense and resilience planning is intended to create a unified security culture within the government, ensuring that digital exploitation is met with a robust and coordinated response.
The sessions were delivered by Mr. Khurram Javed, Director Capacity Building at National CERT, who utilized an interactive and scenario-based methodology to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and actionable strategy. This approach allowed participants to navigate real-world challenges and discuss emerging cyber threats in a controlled environment, fostering a deeper understanding of cybersecurity best practices. The high level of engagement throughout the training highlighted a shared commitment to protecting organizational and individual digital identities from evolving risks. These ongoing training initiatives reaffirm the dedication of National CERT to empowering government institutions through sustained capacity building, ultimately strengthening national cyber resilience and ensuring the continuous protection of public digital services across the country.
This strategic effort by National CERT underscores the critical importance of keeping the nation’s digital infrastructure secure in an increasingly interconnected world. By providing specialized training to those managing state communications and information systems, the program addresses the unique security requirements of the public sector. The collaborative environment fostered at ISA allows for the sharing of insights and the development of a synchronized defense strategy among various departments. As government operations continue to transition toward more digital-dependent models, such capacity-building efforts serve as a cornerstone for maintaining national security and public trust. National CERT remains a leading force in navigating the complexities of the modern cyber landscape, ensuring that all administrative levels are well-prepared to counter digital threats.
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