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Background

With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure in education, Cybersecurity (CS) has
become a critical component to ensure the safety and integrity of educational systems.

Educational institutions, including universities and colleges, are rapidly adopting online
platforms, digital resources, and cloud-based services for administration, research, and
teaching. This digital transformation, while enabling more accessible and innovative
educational experiences, also exposes institutions to significant cybersecurity threats. Parallelly,
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool in transforming educational
paradigms, fostering an environment of innovation and preparing students for future

challenges. It will not only enhance faculty expertise but also promotes interdisciplinary
collaboration, ensuring that institutions remain at the forefront of educational excellence. On
various occasion, Hon'ble Prime Minister has emphasized the critical importance of
cybersecurity and the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in modern education.

Introduction

National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) inter alia stipulates that the world is undergoing
rapid changes in the knowledge landscape. With various dramatic scientific and technological
advances, such as the rise of big data, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, many
unskilled jobs worldwide may be taken over by machines, while the need for a skilled
workforce, will be increasingly in greater demand. NEP 2020 highlights the importance of
integrating technology in education, including cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI).
Following are the relevant points concerning training for faculty:

i. Digital Literacy: NEP 2020 emphasizes the need for enhancing digital literacy among
educators. This includes understanding the basics of cybersecurity to protect data and

privacy.

ii. Incorporation of Technology: The policy encourages the use of AI and other emerging
technologies in education. Faculty and staff training in these areas is essential for
effective implementation and integration into the curriculum and administrative
processes.

iii. Capacity Building: NEP 2020 advocates for continuous professional development,
suggesting that training Programmes should include components on cybersecurity
protocols and the ethical use of AI in educational settings.

iv. Collaboration with Institutions: The policy mentions collaboration with relevant
institutions and organizations to provide training and resources, ensuring faculty and
staff are well-versed in current technologies and practices.

v. Research and Development: Encouraging research in the fields of AI and cybersecurity
is also a focal point, implying that faculty should be trained not only in application but

also in understanding the underlying principles and research methodologies.

NEP 2020 underscores the necessity for a skilled workforce in education that is proficient inter-

alia in cybersecurity and AI to enhance teaching, learning, and administrative efficiency. This
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