Cyber Shakthi: Empowering Young Girls for a Safer Digital Future

Cyber Shakthi is a focused cyber safety awareness and capacity-building initiative undertaken by Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Puducherry Campus, from 17th to 19th March 2026, with the vision of contributing to Puducherry’s transformation into a cyber-resilient zone.

The programme is specifically designed to empower girl students from Grades 7 to 12 by equipping them with the essential knowledge and awareness required for the safe, responsible, and informed use of digital platforms. In an increasingly digital world, Cyber Shakthi aims to build young learners' confidence to navigate online spaces securely while understanding potential cyber risks.

Delivered through structured, age-appropriate, and interactive sessions, the initiative is supported by expert-curated learning materials and a systematic assessment framework to ensure meaningful engagement and measurable learning outcomes.

As part of its successful implementation, Rashtriya Raksha University – Puducherry Campus effectively conducted the Cyber Shakthi Awareness Programme for girl students across multiple schools. A total of 2,400 Cyber Shakthi books were distributed, benefiting students from the following institutions:

• Annai Sivagami Government Girls Higher Secondary School – 661 books
• Sinnatha Government Girls Higher Secondary School – 520 books
• Thiruvalluvar Government Girls Higher Secondary School – 400 books
• Manimegalai Government Girls Higher Secondary School – 330 books
• Thanthai Periyar Government Higher Secondary School – 210 books
• New Era Senior Secondary School – 59 books
• New Creation School – 53 books
• NSS Village Adoption Camp – 100 books
• RRU – Puducherry Campus – 70 books

The sessions focused on raising awareness of cyber safety and equipping students with essential knowledge to protect themselves against cybercrimes such as online fraud, cyberbullying, and other emerging digital threats.

Participants who successfully complete the programme are awarded certification under the Indian Security Education & Awareness (ISEA) initiative of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, providing national-level recognition for their learning.

The successful execution of the programme was supported by a dedicated team, including:

• Dr. Bascarane, Community Coordinator, Auroville
• Dr. Bhumika Shah – AIC RRU, Gujarat
• Dr. S. Abarna – Assistant Professor (Cybersecurity/IT)
• Mrs. Suriya P – Teaching-cum-Research Officer (Cybersecurity/IT)
• Mr. Chandramouleswer K – Junior Research-cum-Administrative Assistant
• Mr. Arun – Working Committee, Auroville 

Cyber Shakthi is a successful initiative by Rashtriya Raksha University, Puducherry Campus, that has effectively empowered girl students with essential cyber safety knowledge. Through wide outreach, structured learning, and national-level certification under the Indian Security Education & Awareness programme, the programme strengthens digital awareness and contributes to building a cyber-resilient Puducherry.