National CERT has successfully concluded its six-week Cyber Champs Internship Program, a capacity-building initiative dedicated to equipping young participants with essential cybersecurity knowledge and digital safety skills. Designed to combine technical learning with responsible online behavior, the program brought together around 20 enthusiastic youth who immersed themselves in a structured, engaging, and practical learning experience aimed at developing the next generation of cyber-aware citizens.
Over the duration of the program, participants followed a progressive learning path that covered an extensive range of topics. The sessions included fundamentals of cyber hygiene, proper social media usage, and introductory concepts in web design and development. Participants also gained awareness of cybersecurity governance policies and standards, programming basics, and critical online safety issues such as cyber harassment, online scams, bullying, misinformation, disinformation, malicious software, cracked applications, and incident reporting procedures. The learning experience was delivered through interactive activities, expert-led sessions, and real-world demonstrations, ensuring that technical skills were balanced with lessons in digital ethics and responsible cyber conduct.
One of the highlights of the program was an organized visit to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), arranged by the Capacity Building Directorate of National CERT and led by Ms. Zaheema Iqbal, Assistant Director Advisories. During this visit, participants were given a guided tour of PTA’s Security Operations Center (SOC), allowing them to witness first-hand how Pakistan’s critical digital infrastructure is monitored and protected. This exposure provided them with a practical understanding of the country’s cyber defense operations and the technologies involved in safeguarding national digital assets.
The program concluded with a formal closing ceremony where Mr. Khurram Javed, Director Capacity Building at National CERT, addressed the participants. He commended them for their active involvement, dedication, and eagerness to explore the field of cybersecurity, encouraging them to continue pursuing their interest and to apply their learning toward building promising careers in the sector. Following his remarks, certificates of completion were awarded to all participants by Dr. Haider Abbas, TI, Director General of National CERT.
Dr. Abbas expressed appreciation for the participants’ adaptability and their ability to grasp complex cybersecurity concepts despite their young age. He emphasized that such initiatives are essential for fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness in Pakistan, particularly among the youth who are growing up in an increasingly connected digital environment. He noted that these young individuals now represent a valuable part of the country’s broader cyber resilience efforts, equipped with the knowledge to protect themselves online and contribute to a safer digital ecosystem.
National CERT views the Cyber Champs Internship Program as part of its broader mission to enhance Pakistan’s cybersecurity readiness by starting with foundational education. By engaging the country’s youngest digital users and empowering them with knowledge, skills, and confidence, the organization aims to build a generation capable of navigating the evolving challenges of the cyber landscape while promoting a more secure and responsible online environment for all.
Source: LinkedIn
