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During the East-West Global Cyber Security Alliance Summit, held as part of the Global Cyber Congress 2024 in Zurich, Switzerland, on November 26 and 27

“The selection of the cyber security educational curricula project came after evaluating 52 initiatives from different countries. The award confirms Qatar's prestigious ranking as a model country in cyber security.”

"The award underscores Qatar's esteemed status as a leading model country in cyber security

In recognition of its significant contributions to enhancing digital safety across all segments of society, the National Cyber Security Agency was awarded the "Excellence Award in Cyber Security Education" for its “Educational cyber security curricula” project. This prestigious award acknowledges the Agency's pioneering work in developing and implementing innovative cyber security education curricula for school students at all levels. These curricula, tailored to the specific needs and understanding of different age groups, aim to foster a cyber-aware and resilient society.

On behalf of the National Cyber Security Agency, Mr. Khaled Al Hashemi, Director of National Cyber Enablement and Excellence Affairs, received the award from Ms. Sepah, Swiss Government Advisor, during the inaugural day of the summit on November 26, 2024.

The award, organized by the Swiss Cyber Institute, aims to promote case studies and exemplary initiatives in the cyber security field. It introduces two new categories to recognize excellence in cyber security education and research. The State of Qatar, represented by the NCSA, was selected for its project 'Cyber security Educational Curricula' among several other countries for the 2024 edition.

On this occasion, Mr. Khaled Al Hashemi, Director of National Cyber Enablement and Excellence Affairs, stated that selecting Qatar for the award is the result of continuous and sustained efforts in strengthening the pillars and indicators of digital safety, in accordance with the latest systems and strategies in the field. This recognition affirms the prestigious international classification Qatar enjoys, highlighting it as a model country in cyber security. This is thanks to its firm commitment to providing a safe digital environment at the local level, which in turn is reflected internationally, and to strengthening its cooperation with all relevant institutions in confronting increasingly cyber threats.

Ms. Dalal Al Aqeedi, Acting Director of the National Cyber Excellence Department, confirmed that the curriculum project faced strong competition. The evaluation process began in December 2023 with a review of 52 cyber security educational initiatives from various countries. The second phase included a review of 12 initiatives. The Cyber Security Education Initiative in Singapore and the NCSA’s Educational Cyber security Curricula Project received similar grades. Ultimately, the Cyber Security Curricula Project representing the State of Qatar was selected after a thorough review by a panel of 8 academic experts, who examined the entire Curricula, including materials for teachers and parents."

The Educational Cyber security Curricula project previously targeted 214 public schools, 178 private schools, 39 community schools, and 2 schools for students with special needs. The project has benefitted more than 140,000 students. With the start of the 2024-2025 academic year, the number of schools implementing the project has increased.

Winning the Excellence in Cyber Security Education Award at the 'World Cyber Congress 2024' coincided with the NCSA receiving an invitation to attend the East-West Alliance for Global Cyber Security Summit. This summit takes place during the World Cyber Congress 2024 in Zurich, Switzerland, on November 26 and 27.

The conference is a collaboration between the Spanish National Institute of Cyber Security (INCIBE), an agency under the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Civil Service, and the Swiss Cyber Institute, a leading provider of cyber security education. The Institute empowers organizations and individuals through comprehensive training and international conferences.