An examination of cyber security awareness among students engaged in online education in Kano Central LGA, Kano State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
In the digital era, as online education becomes increasingly prevalent, the issue of cybersecurity awareness among students has garnered significant attention. Kano Central LGA, Kano State, presents a unique environment where rapid digital adoption in education intersects with persistent cybersecurity threats. As educational institutions embrace online platforms to deliver academic content, students are exposed to a range of cybersecurity risks, including data breaches, phishing attacks, and cyberbullying (Olawale, 2023). The accelerated shift to online education, partly due to global health emergencies, has underscored the vulnerability of digital learning environments. Consequently, there is an urgent need to assess and enhance the cybersecurity awareness of students to safeguard their personal information and academic integrity (Mustapha, 2024). This study examines the level of cybersecurity awareness among students engaged in online education in Kano Central LGA, focusing on how these young users perceive digital risks and the effectiveness of existing security measures. In recent years, various initiatives have been introduced to educate students about safe internet practices, yet gaps remain due to limited exposure, inadequate curricular integration, and the rapid evolution of cyber threats (Bello, 2023). Cybersecurity awareness is not only crucial for protecting individual users but also for maintaining the credibility and reliability of online educational systems. The digital transformation in Kano’s educational sector has accelerated the need for robust cybersecurity protocols and comprehensive training programs that address both technical and behavioral aspects of online safety (Sani, 2024). Furthermore, the socio-cultural context of Kano Central LGA, characterized by diverse linguistic and educational backgrounds, poses additional challenges in uniformly disseminating cybersecurity knowledge. The study explores these contextual factors while reviewing international best practices and adapting them to local needs. As digital threats continue to evolve, the ability to preempt and mitigate risks becomes a cornerstone of effective online education. Through a systematic examination of student awareness and institutional preparedness, this study aims to highlight critical areas for improvement and to propose practical recommendations that align with contemporary cybersecurity frameworks (Hassan, 2023). Ultimately, by strengthening cybersecurity awareness, the educational community in Kano Central LGA can better protect its digital assets and foster a secure, resilient online learning environment.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the increasing integration of online education in Kano Central LGA, there remains a significant gap in cybersecurity awareness among students. Many students lack comprehensive knowledge of basic cybersecurity practices, leaving them vulnerable to various online threats such as identity theft, malware, and phishing scams (Abdulrahman, 2023). This gap is exacerbated by insufficient institutional measures and inadequate training programs that fail to address the dynamic nature of cyber risks. While some schools have introduced rudimentary digital safety modules, these efforts are often inconsistent and do not keep pace with the rapid evolution of cybersecurity challenges (Garba, 2024). The lack of a standardized cybersecurity curriculum across educational institutions in Kano Central LGA further compounds the problem, as students are left to rely on fragmented information sources and informal peer guidance. Additionally, the socio-economic diversity of the student population means that access to reliable digital security resources is unevenly distributed, resulting in varied levels of preparedness. The situation is further complicated by the growing sophistication of cybercriminals who continuously devise new methods to exploit vulnerabilities in online systems. Consequently, the current state of cybersecurity awareness among students not only jeopardizes individual data security but also threatens the integrity of the online educational ecosystem. This study seeks to address these challenges by evaluating the extent of cybersecurity awareness among students, identifying the deficiencies in current educational practices, and proposing robust measures to enhance digital safety education. Addressing these issues is imperative to ensure that the adoption of online education in Kano Central LGA does not inadvertently compromise the safety and well-being of its students (Umar, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
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To evaluate the current level of cybersecurity awareness among students engaged in online education in Kano Central LGA.
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To identify the gaps in existing cybersecurity education and training programs.
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To propose targeted interventions to improve cybersecurity practices among students.
Research Questions
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What is the current level of cybersecurity awareness among students in Kano Central LGA?
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What are the primary challenges faced by students in understanding and implementing cybersecurity measures?
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How can educational institutions enhance cybersecurity training to protect students in online learning environments?
Research Hypotheses
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H₁: Increased cybersecurity training is positively associated with higher cybersecurity awareness among students.
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H₂: There is a significant gap between the perceived and actual cybersecurity knowledge of students.
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H₃: Standardized cybersecurity education programs improve the overall security posture of online learning environments.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity awareness in online education. The outcomes are expected to inform policymakers and educators on developing effective training programs that safeguard students and strengthen the digital integrity of Kano Central LGA’s educational systems.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to examining cybersecurity awareness among students engaged in online education in Kano Central LGA, Kano State. It focuses on selected institutions and does not extend to other regions or age groups.
Definitions of Terms
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Cybersecurity Awareness: The understanding and practice of protecting digital information and systems from cyber threats.
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Online Education: The delivery of academic content via internet-based platforms.
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Phishing: A fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity online.
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