National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) participated in Cyber Uraan, a major initiative by Kinverg organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Planning Development and Special Initiatives. The event served as a key platform for promoting cybersecurity awareness and skills among Pakistan’s emerging professionals. It focused on building the capacity of the next generation of digital defenders, ensuring they are equipped with the technical understanding and critical thinking necessary to safeguard the nation’s digital environment.
Ms. Zaheema Iqbal, Assistant Director Advisories and Communications at National CERT, addressed the participants as a guest speaker in a session focused on “Pakistan’s Cyber Threat Landscape.” She provided a comprehensive overview of the evolving threat environment, categorizing cyber risks into three main levels: individual, organizational, and national. She elaborated on the growing sophistication of cyberattacks targeting users, enterprises, and infrastructure, urging participants to adopt proactive defense strategies and responsible digital behavior. Her session underlined the importance of collaboration among government, academia, and industry to ensure a cohesive and responsive national cybersecurity posture.
During the session, Ms. Iqbal also presented an overview of National CERT’s ongoing initiatives that aim to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and resilience across Pakistan. These include Cyber NEST, a dedicated hub for capacity building and innovation in cybersecurity; Cyber Care for Children, an awareness initiative focused on online safety for minors; the Cyber Aagahi Series, which promotes digital hygiene and safe practices among the public; and the Junior Cyber Superheroes Program, designed to nurture young digital citizens with a sense of responsibility and awareness. She also highlighted National CERT’s strategic roadmap, emphasizing collaboration, continuous education, and alignment with global cybersecurity standards to strengthen the country’s defense mechanisms.
Cyber Uraan provided a dynamic platform for young participants to interact with professionals from the cybersecurity community and explore emerging trends, tools, and approaches to tackle cyber threats. National CERT’s involvement in the initiative reinforced its commitment to cultivating a secure digital ecosystem through education, collaboration, and national-level engagement. The event not only promoted technical learning but also encouraged participants to think critically about digital ethics, privacy, and responsibility. Through such programs, National CERT continues to play an essential role in shaping Pakistan’s cybersecurity future, enabling a more informed and secure digital society that can effectively respond to evolving cyber challenges.
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