NIIT Rural Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity Initiative Under Digital Skilling Initiative

The Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity Initiative, spearheaded by Initiative Head Nandita Mittal and supported by Shalini Setia, was launched at Saraswati Girls Senior Secondary School in Jaipur under the leadership of Ms. Raghushree Poddar, Chairperson of FICCI FLO Jaipur Chapter 2024-25. The initiative aimed to educate young girls about cybersecurity, digital fraud, and safe internet practices. Additionally, it focused on empowering women with practical skills such as stitching and handmade gift item creation, fostering sustainable growth and economic independence. The program is a part of a broader effort to promote digital literacy and skill development in the rural sector.

Initiative Head – Nandita Mittal
Supported By – Shalini Setia
Initiative Date – 20th June, 2024

Venue Details

The initiative took place at Saraswati Girls Senior Secondary School, Jaipur. The school provided an accessible and supportive environment for both the digital literacy sessions and the hands-on workshops for skill development. The venue was equipped with necessary digital tools and sewing equipment, ensuring an effective learning experience for all participants.

Key Highlights

1. Cybersecurity and Digital Fraud Awareness: The program featured comprehensive sessions on cybersecurity, educating 38 students about various types of digital fraud and how to recognize and avoid them. The sessions included interactive discussions, real-life examples, and practical tips for safe internet usage. Topics covered included password security, safe online behaviour, identifying phishing attempts, and protecting personal information.

2. Skill Development Workshops for Women: Alongside the cybersecurity education, the initiative offered workshops focused on teaching women practical skills such as stitching and creating handmade gift items. These workshops aimed to empower women by providing them with marketable skills that could lead to economic independence. The training included instruction on basic sewing techniques, design ideas for gift items, and guidance on starting small businesses or cooperatives.

3. Community Engagement and Future Goals: The initiative actively engaged with the local community, encouraging women and girls to participate and benefit from the training. The program set a goal to train over 100 women in the rural sector over the next three quarters, expanding its impact and reach.

Number of Beneficiaries

The initiative directly impacted 38 students who participated in the cybersecurity awareness sessions. Additionally, several women attended the skill development workshops, learning valuable skills that could enhance their livelihood opportunities. The initiative’s broader aim is to reach over 100 women in the rural sector, significantly contributing to the community’s socio-economic development.

Partnerships and Collaborations

The initiative was supported by various local organizations and community groups, providing resources and expertise for both the digital literacy and skill development components. These partnerships were crucial in ensuring the success of the program, offering logistical support, training materials, and expert facilitators.

Overview

The Digital Literacy and Cybersecurity Initiative at Saraswati Girls Senior Secondary School marked a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting digital safety among young girls. The program also focused on skill development for women, aligning with broader goals of empowerment and sustainable growth. The combination of these two focus areas—digital literacy and practical skills—provided a holistic approach to community development.

The initiative successfully raised awareness about cybersecurity among students and equipped women with essential skills for economic empowerment. The positive feedback from participants and the community underscores the importance of such initiatives in today’s digital age. As the program continues to expand, it promises to reach a broader audience, fostering a safer digital environment and providing sustainable growth opportunities for women in the rural sector. This program’s success highlights the potential for community-driven projects to create lasting change and empower individuals with knowledge and skills that lead to a brighter future.