Background of the study
The increasing reliance on digital technologies has brought about numerous benefits in education, but it has also exposed students and educational institutions to various cybersecurity risks, such as data breaches, cyberbullying, and online fraud (Chijioke & Timothy, 2023). Cybersecurity awareness is crucial for students, teachers, and school administrators to ensure the safe use of online platforms and digital tools. Many secondary schools in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas, lack adequate cybersecurity education, leaving them vulnerable to cyber threats (Alhassan & Ibrahim, 2023).
In Makurdi Local Government Area, secondary schools are becoming increasingly digital, and there is a growing need for cybersecurity awareness programs to educate students and staff about safe online practices. This study aims to design and implement a cybersecurity awareness program tailored to the needs of secondary school students in Makurdi, focusing on educating them about the importance of cybersecurity and equipping them with the skills to navigate the digital world safely.
Statement of the problem
Secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area face significant challenges in raising awareness about cybersecurity threats among students and staff. The lack of a structured cybersecurity awareness program makes schools vulnerable to cyber-attacks, which can compromise student data, disrupt educational activities, and harm the institution’s reputation. This study will address the gap by designing a comprehensive cybersecurity awareness program for secondary schools in Makurdi.
Objectives of the study
To design a cybersecurity awareness program for secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State.
To assess the effectiveness of the cybersecurity awareness program in enhancing students’ understanding of online safety and security.
To evaluate the impact of the cybersecurity awareness program on the behavior of students regarding safe online practices.
Research questions
How effective is the designed cybersecurity awareness program in improving students' understanding of cybersecurity risks?
What impact does the cybersecurity awareness program have on students' behavior in relation to safe online practices?
How do teachers and administrators perceive the effectiveness of the cybersecurity awareness program in enhancing the school’s digital security culture?
Significance of the study
This study will provide a framework for developing and implementing cybersecurity awareness programs in secondary schools. The findings will assist educators, school administrators, and policymakers in addressing cybersecurity issues in the education sector and safeguarding students from digital threats.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study will focus on secondary schools in Makurdi Local Government Area, Benue State, and will be limited to the design and implementation of a cybersecurity awareness program. The research will not include schools outside of Makurdi or higher education institutions.
Definitions of terms
Cybersecurity awareness program: A structured educational initiative designed to teach students, teachers, and staff about potential cybersecurity risks and safe online practices.
Cybersecurity risks: The threats posed by cyber-attacks, including data breaches, identity theft, and cyberbullying.
Safe online practices: Behaviors that reduce the risk of exposure to online threats, such as using strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and protecting personal data.
Online safety: The measures taken to ensure that individuals can use the internet securely, without encountering harmful or malicious activities.
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