National CERT has launched its pioneering initiative, the Cyber Care for Children (CCC) program, with the first-ever training session held at the Beaconhouse School System’s Margalla Campus in Islamabad. This program is part of National CERT’s ongoing Cybersecurity Capacity Building Program, aimed at providing critical cybersecurity education to young people across Pakistan, equipping them with essential skills to protect themselves in the digital world.
The session, focused on the theme of Child Online Protection, was designed to address the increasing threats faced by children and teenagers in the digital space. With the growing reliance on technology for learning, socializing, and entertainment, it is crucial for young people to understand the risks associated with online activities and how to mitigate them. The Cyber Care for Children initiative seeks to raise awareness about common cyber threats, such as cyberbullying, online predators, identity theft, and the misuse of personal information.
Mr. Khurram Javed, Director of Capacity Building at National CERT, conducted the session, which was both informative and interactive. Through engaging discussions and presentations, he highlighted key strategies and best practices to help children safeguard themselves while exploring the vast digital world. His session included practical tips on how to identify and avoid online threats, manage privacy settings, and navigate the internet safely. The presentation also emphasized the importance of critical thinking and decision-making when it comes to online interactions and content consumption.
The students, mostly from middle and high school grades, actively participated in the session by sharing their own experiences and asking pertinent questions about how to protect their personal information and maintain privacy while using digital platforms. The interactive nature of the session allowed for an enriching exchange of ideas, helping the students better understand the significance of cybersecurity in their daily lives.
In addition to the students, the Cyber Care for Children program also engages parents and teachers. By including these groups in the training process, National CERT is promoting a holistic approach to cybersecurity education. The goal is to create a secure and responsible online environment, not only for children but for their families as well. The program encourages a collaborative effort to ensure that both students and adults are aware of the risks and understand how to create a safe online space.
This first session at Beaconhouse School System is just the beginning of National CERT’s ambitious plans. More sessions are set to take place across various campuses in schools and colleges, with a focus on building cybersecurity awareness among the next generation. These sessions will address specific online risks faced by students and provide them with the necessary tools to act proactively in protecting themselves from potential harm. The initiative aims to build a stronger digital resilience within the youth of Pakistan, enabling them to be more responsible and safe online.
National CERT’s Cyber Care for Children program marks a significant step in addressing the growing need for cybersecurity education in Pakistan. With the continued advancement of technology and the increasing number of cyber threats, it is essential for young people to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate the online world securely. Through this initiative, National CERT is not only working to protect the digital lives of children but is also shaping the future leaders of Pakistan to meet the challenges posed by the ever-evolving digital landscape.
