The Data Security Council of India (DSCI) in a pioneering partnership with SISA has launched a cyber safety awareness program, known as ‘Cyber for YOUth’ for school students across Karnataka.
The program aspires to elevate the cyber awareness quotient within the educational ecosystem, reaching both students and school administrations. For students, the initiative fosters a safer digital footprint by providing insights into the virtual world’s pervasive nature, teaching protective measures against the dark side of the Internet, and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to safeguard themselves and their communities. Through a series of interactive sessions and creative engagements, participants will gain a robust understanding of the Cyber World, juxtaposed with the real, physical world. The program will also promote Safe Browsing practices and demonstrate the necessity of Two-Factor Authentication. Furthermore, the analysis of real-life cases will provide tangible insights into potential threats, solidifying the students’ understanding and preparing them for a digitally secure future.
For school administrators, this program promises a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape, tailored to address the unique challenges faced by educational institutions. Practical guidance will be offered on Securing Personal Devices, including hands-on sessions on Encrypting USBs and implementing Two-Factor Authentication. The program will cover essential topics like Data Backup, the use of Password Managers, and safeguarding against Keyloggers, SSL/HTTPS, ensuring Secure Browsing, and managing Patches & Updates for optimal Webcam Protection. By examining real-life cases, teachers and administrators will gain tangible insights into potential threats, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster a secure digital environment within their institutions.
This initiative will be brought to life through physical training sessions conducted by DSCI’s qualified training partners. The delivery of this pioneering initiative has been meticulously designed to create maximum impact. Awareness sessions will serve as the cornerstone, enlightening students and educators about cyber safety. The initiative will also feature creative challenges such as banners and poster making and engaging ‘Did You Know’ series, to encourage active participation and reflection.
Vinayak Godse, CEO, DSCI while launching the Cyber for YOUth program said, “Empowering the youth to protect themselves from evolving cyber threats is crucial. It will help them experience the digital space as a positive force for learning, growth, and exploration, rather than a source of danger. We are delighted to collaborate with SISA for this vital awareness program which resonates with our commitment to promoting a safe, secure, and enabling experience for students online. We hope that the course content proves to be an immersive experience that is both educational and engaging, ensuring that the principles of cyber safety are internalized and applied in the daily lives of students and school administrations alike.”
Speaking about the collaboration, Dharshan Shanthamurthy, CEO, SISA said, “This partnership with DSCI is a significant step forward in our mission to create a digitally secure society. Education on cyber safety is not just a need but a fundamental right in today’s interconnected world. By empowering students in marginalized communities with the tools and knowledge required for safe digital interaction, we are building a foundation for a more secure future. This initiative perfectly embodies SISA’s dedication to fostering digital security and resonates with our core values.”
