The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation has announced its partnership with Rotary District 3232 and FISST (Forensic Intelligence Surveillance & Security Technologies) Academy to train government and Private School Students on cybersecurity. This pioneering initiative aims to empower students with essential knowledge and is tailored for students of Classes 9th and 11th to foster a safer digital environment. The first batch of students’ training at IIT Madras began on March 30, 2024, and will be held for ten Saturdays. A total of 1,000 students will participate across ten batches, each comprising 100 students.
The joint effort reflects Rotary’s commitment to education and community service, coupled with IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation’s expertise in technology and cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity is increasingly crucial in today’s interconnected world. With a rising reliance on digital platforms, the youth must be equipped with fundamental knowledge in this field. Through this programme, students will receive comprehensive training covering the basics of cybersecurity, including understanding cyber threats, safe internet practices, data privacy, and digital hygiene.
IITM Pravartak enthusiastically accepts the responsibility of bringing the future generation of cutting-edge technologies to young India. It is a Section 8 Company housing the Technology Innovation Hub on Sensors, Networking, Actuators, and Control Systems. It is funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, under its National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems and hosted by IIT Madras.
Highlighting the need for such cybersecurity training, Rajendra Mootha, Vice President, IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation, said:
Empowering students with cybersecurity education aligns with our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a secure digital ecosystem. We are honoured to join forces with Rotary to impart essential skills that will benefit students throughout their lives.
The training programme will feature interactive sessions, workshops, and hands-on activities led by seasoned professionals and cybersecurity experts. Participants will gain practical insights into identifying and mitigating cyber risks, enhancing their digital resilience.
With the support of sponsors, volunteers, and stakeholders, Rotary and the IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation are grateful for making this initiative possible. They said, “We are dedicated to working together to create a more secure and safe digital future for our youth”.
The key outcomes envisaged from this programme include
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Awareness: Equipping students with the knowledge to effectively recognize and respond to cyber threats.
- Safe Internet Practices: Educating students on best practices for secure online navigation and protecting personal information.
- Data Privacy Protection: Instilling understanding and practices to safeguard sensitive data and prioritize privacy in digital interactions.
- Digital Hygiene Promotion: Encouraging good digital hygiene habits to mitigate cyber threats, such as regular software updates and intense password usage.
