Enhancing Cybersecurity Awareness through Training and Educational Programs for Schools and Colleges in Remuna Tehsil, Balasore District, Odisha

Abstract

In the contemporary digital landscape, the increasing integration of technology in educational and workplace settings has led to a heightened exposure to cyber risks. This study investigates the implementation of mass cybersecurity awareness initiatives through structured training and educational programs conducted across various schools, colleges, and workplaces in Remuna Tehsil, Balasore District, Odisha. The intervention targeted key educational institutions, including St. Thomas Convent School, Tundra High School, Saraswati Sishu Mandira, Bhimpura High School, Bhagabat Gosain High School, and several colleges, namely Rural Institute of Industrial Training Centres (Bhograi and Dehurda), Bahanaga College, Harekrushna Mahatab College, and Remuna Junior College. The objective was to enhance cybersecurity literacy among students & educators, equipping them with the essential knowledge to mitigate the risks of cyber threats such as phishing, malware, and data breaches. A multifaceted approach was employed, incorporating workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities to instill best practices for secure digital behavior and personal data protection. The findings highlight the significance of continuous, localized educational efforts in fostering a robust cybersecurity culture, emphasizing the critical need for proactive engagement in safeguarding digital environments. This paper discusses the methodologies used, the outcomes observed, and the implications for similar cybersecurity awareness programs in other regions