Raising Awareness: The Inaugural Cybersecurity Moot Court in Gqeberha
In an era where digital interactions are an integral part of daily life, the importance of understanding cybersecurity and its implications cannot be overstated. The Institute of Information Technology Professionals of South Africa’s Cybersecurity Special Interest Group (IITPSA SIGCyber) took a significant step in this direction by sponsoring the inaugural Cybersecurity Moot Court in Gqeberha. This event, held during Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, aimed to shed light on the pressing issue of cyber bullying and its far-reaching consequences.
A Collaborative Effort
The Moot Court was organized by Prof Noluxolo Gcaza, a prominent figure in the field of cybersecurity and the founder of The Cyberculture Foundation. As an Associate Professor in the School of IT at Nelson Mandela University, Prof Gcaza brought together various stakeholders, including the Faculty of Law at Nelson Mandela University and the Eastern Cape Department of Education. This collaboration highlighted the intersection of cybersecurity and legal frameworks, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the challenges posed by cyber bullying.
Engaging the Youth
The event saw the participation of 22 learners from 11 high schools in Gqeberha, who were paired with law student mentors. This unique pairing allowed high school students to engage in a fictional case centered around cyber bullying, where they explored the tragic consequences faced by a fictional learner. By critically analyzing the implications of such actions, the participants were able to understand the necessity of effective school policies to address incidents of cyber bullying.
Prof Gcaza articulated the primary goal of the competition: “The aim of the competition was for learners to critically engage with the realities of cyber bullying through the lens of the South African Constitution and our legal framework. We want them to return to their schools and communities as champions of cyber safety, driving these essential conversations forward.” This vision underscores the importance of empowering young individuals to take an active role in promoting cyber safety within their communities.
The Courtroom Experience
Over the course of two days, the Moot Court culminated in finals held at the Gqeberha High Court. Here, the learners presented their cases before a panel of four Justices, simulating a real courtroom experience. This not only provided them with a platform to articulate their arguments but also instilled a sense of confidence and public speaking skills that are invaluable in any professional setting.
Prof Kerry-Lynn Thomson, a Professor in the School of IT at Nelson Mandela University and Chair of IITPSA SIGCyber, played a pivotal role in addressing participants on both days. She emphasized the critical issues surrounding cyber bullying and the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in safeguarding our digital environment. Her insights reinforced the idea that awareness and education are key components in combating cyber bullying.
Fostering a Safer Community
The impact of the Moot Court extends beyond the event itself. Prof Thomson stated, "Through this initiative, participants will utilize the knowledge gained to promote awareness of cyber bullying within their schools, fostering a safer and more informed community." This statement encapsulates the essence of the event: equipping young individuals with the tools and knowledge necessary to advocate for cyber safety and create a supportive environment for their peers.
Looking Ahead
As the inaugural Cybersecurity Moot Court concludes, the IITPSA SIGCyber and its partners are already looking ahead to future initiatives. The excitement surrounding this event has laid the groundwork for ongoing discussions and activities aimed at furthering the understanding of cybersecurity issues among youth. By nurturing this cohort of learners, the organizers hope to create a ripple effect that will inspire more students to engage with the topic and advocate for safe digital practices.
In conclusion, the Cybersecurity Moot Court in Gqeberha was not just an event; it was a movement towards fostering awareness and understanding of cyber bullying among the youth. By merging the disciplines of cybersecurity and law, the initiative has set a precedent for future educational endeavors, ensuring that the conversation around cyber safety continues to thrive in schools and communities across South Africa.