The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced the “Handbook on Basics of Cyber Hygiene for Higher Education Institutions,” a comprehensive resource aimed at enhancing cybersecurity awareness among faculty, students, and non-teaching staff.
This initiative is part of UGC’s commitment to strengthening the cybersecurity framework within educational institutions and promoting safe online practices. The handbook is accessible on the UGC’s official website.
The handbook provides detailed guidelines and best practices to foster a culture of cybersecurity within higher education institutions. It covers topics such as understanding cyber hygiene, identifying common cyber threats, and implementing preventive measures to protect digital assets.
In an official notice, UGC emphasized the importance of this resource, stating that its proactive adoption will support the development of a secure academic ecosystem and ensure adherence to best practices for protecting digital assets in higher education institutions.
The handbook also addresses the legal framework for cybersecurity in India, providing insights into relevant laws and regulations. Additionally, it offers guidance on career opportunities in cybersecurity, aiming to equip stakeholders with the knowledge to navigate the digital space safely.
UGC has urged all higher education institutions to encourage their communities to refer to this handbook. By adopting its recommendations, institutions can enhance their cyber resilience and contribute to a safer digital environment in academia.
The handbook is available for download on the UGC website.
In recent years, the significance of cybersecurity has grown, driven by rapid digital transformation. The demand for cybersecurity professionals has surged as organizations seek experts to prevent data breaches and fraud. Recognizing this, several Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and other leading institutions now offer specialized cybersecurity courses. For instance, the School of Open Learning (SOL) at Delhi University provides various short-term courses, including Cybersecurity Training, to equip students with essential skills in this critical field.
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By introducing this handbook, UGC aims to empower stakeholders in higher education with the necessary knowledge and tools to maintain robust cyber hygiene, thereby fostering a secure and resilient academic environment.
