 Photo Courtesy: Image by Fakhruddin Memon from Pixabay Bridging the Cybersecurity Gap in Nagaland's Educational Institutions Pangerkumzuk Longkumer Founder and Director, Nexuscipherguard India (OPC) Pvt Ltd As schools and colleges in Nagaland reopen after their winter break, the increasing use of digital platforms in education brings both opportunities and challenges. While technology enhances learning, it also exposes students and educators to cyber threats like scams, phishing, and sextortion. Addressing these risks is crucial to ensure a safe learning environment. The Current Cybersecurity Situation in Nagaland’s Schools Despite the growing reliance on digital tools, many of Nagaland’s educational institutions lack basic cybersecurity infrastructure. This leaves them vulnerable to various cybercrimes, particularly targeting young students who are often unaware of these dangers. Reports have shown a rise in cybercrimes like digital scams and phishing attacks, which underscores the need for improved cybersecurity measures. Challenges Schools Face 1. Lack of Cyber-Trained Teachers: There’s a severe shortage of teachers trained in cybersecurity. Without knowledgeable staff, schools struggle to implement effective safety measures. While some local institutes offer courses in cybersecurity, the number of trained professionals remains far too low to meet the demand. 2. Cybersecurity Education Gaps: Most to no schools don’t include cybersecurity in their curriculum. As a result, students graduate without the basic skills needed to protect themselves online. Incorporating cybersecurity lessons could help students develop a better understanding of online safety. 3. Limited Awareness Programs: General awareness initiatives exist, but they often fail to address the specific needs of educational institutions. Schools require customized programs that focus on real-world threats students might face, such as cyberbullying and data privacy issues. Why Cybersecurity Education Matters Cybersecurity education is essential in today’s digital world. Teaching students about online safety not only protects them but also helps build a community that values and understands the importance of cybersecurity. When students learn about these issues early on, they’re better equipped to navigate the digital landscape safely. Practical Steps to Bridge the Cybersecurity Gap 1. Train Educators: Schools need to invest in training their teachers. Educators equipped with cybersecurity knowledge can pass this on to their students, creating a safer school environment. 2. Update Curriculums: Cybersecurity should be part of the regular school curriculum. By introducing basic concepts early, students will develop the skills needed to stay safe online throughout their lives. 3. Collaborate with Experts: Schools can partner with cybersecurity organizations like Nexuscipherguard India (OPC) Pvt Ltd, MMB Cyber School and Nielit, to bring expertise and resources into the classroom. Collaborative efforts can help design effective awareness programs and provide practical safety tips for students and staff. Policy Changes Needed To address these issues, policymakers should: • Support Public-Private Partnerships • By working with private cybersecurity firms, schools can gain access to the resources and expertise they need to enhance their security measures. • Allocate Funding • Dedicated funding for cybersecurity initiatives can help schools implement the necessary training and infrastructure improvements. • Develop Comprehensive Policies • Creating policies that mandate cybersecurity education and protection in schools will ensure a consistent approach to student safety. Conclusion As Nagaland’s educational institutions continue to embrace digital tools, addressing the cybersecurity gap is more important than ever. By improving cybersecurity education, training teachers, and fostering collaboration, we can create a safer digital environment for students. Here’s a thought to reflect on: How can we, as a community, work together to ensure that our students are not only aware of the digital threats they face but are also equipped to defend themselves in this ever-evolving digital landscape?Pangerkumzuk Longkumer is a seasoned cybersecurity professional dedicated to advancing digital safety and awareness. As the founder of Nexuscipherguard India, he has played a pivotal role in organizing workshops, seminars, and educational programs aimed at empowering individuals and institutions with the knowledge and tools needed to defend against cyber threats. Cybersecurity in Nagaland's Schools: Bridging the Digital Safety Gap | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
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