KISHTWAR, APRIL 11: District Institute of Education and Training (DIET), Kishtwar today organised a one-day workshop for dissemination of a research tool aimed at assessing awareness on cyber safety and security among secondary students (Classes IX–XII).
The initiative aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023, which emphasise safe and responsible use of digital technology in education. With increasing digital integration in classrooms, concerns such as online safety, privacy risks, distractions and misuse of digital platforms have gained prominence, necessitating awareness among students and teachers.
During the session, guidelines issued by the Ministry of Education regarding integration of cyber safety and security into the school curriculum were shared.
Participants were also sensitised to the ongoing study undertaken by CIET–NCERT titled “A Study on the Awareness of Cyber Safety and Security among Secondary Students (Classes IX–XII)”. The study aims to assess the awareness levels of students and support evidence-based integration of cyber safety in school education.
The DIET faculty sought cooperation from all Higher Secondary and High Schools of the district for data collection through the online tool. Heads of Institutions (HOIs) and Nodal Officers have been requested to ensure maximum participation by sharing the survey link and QR code with students of Classes IX–XII.
Notably, over 100 Senior Secondary students of GHSS Boys and GHSS Girls Kishtwar filled the online form on the spot as shared with them and the Nodal Officers, reflecting active participation and engagement.
The workshop was conducted under the overall supervision of the DIET Principal Tirath Lal. Higher Secondary Level Students (XI and XII class) and Nodal Officers from different Higher Secondary Schools of the District participated in the programme.
Dy. SP Headquarters Dr. Ishan Gupta attended the event as Chief Guest and delivered a comprehensive and insightful address on cyber safety and emerging cyber threats. He elaborated on different forms of cyber crimes including online frauds, identity theft, cyber bullying, phishing attacks and misuse of social media platforms. He also highlighted preventive measures, safe online practices, importance of strong passwords, awareness about suspicious links and responsible digital behaviour.
Emphasising the role of students and teachers, he urged them to remain vigilant, report cyber incidents promptly and adopt safe digital habits to navigate the digital world securely.
Cyber security expert Riaz Ahmed Mir from SSP Office also provided valuable insights on responsible use of mobile devices and online platforms.
Senior Academic Officer DIET Riaz Batt highlighted the importance of integrating cyber safety education into daily classroom practices. He stressed that awareness at an early stage can empower students to become responsible digital citizens and make informed decisions while using technology.
Other faculty members including Dr. Nadeem Ul Hassan also interacted with students and enriched the session.
The District Nodal Officer (DNO) Vikrant Thakur and Assistant District Nodal Officer (ADNO) Urja Butyal guided participants regarding the use of the research tool and data collection process. Monika Gupta, Work Experience Teacher, also actively contributed to the proceedings.
Earlier, the Workshop commenced with a welcome address by Senior Academic Officer, Riaz Ahmed Giri, who warmly welcomed the chief guest, resource persons, nodal officers and students.
The workshop concluded with active participation and a renewed commitment towards promoting cyber safety awareness among students and teachers across the district.