Mumbai: 12th February 2024: Quick Heal Foundation, the CSR arm of Quick Heal Technologies Limited, a global cybersecurity solutions provider, hosted the 2024 edition of the ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha Awards’ on February 10th in Pune, Maharashtra. The ceremony recognizes the outstanding efforts of the volunteering institutions, teachers, and students who have participated in its flagship initiative ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’. The award ceremony was graced by Ms. Anupama Katkar, Chairperson, Quick Heal Foundation, Prof. V. L. Maheshwari, Vice Chancellor of Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon, Prof. (Dr) Prakash A. Mahanwar, Vice Chancellor of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, Mr. Sanjay Shintre, Superintendent of Police – Maharashtra Cyber and the academicians from 29 participating institutions.
The ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ initiative aims to create awareness and educate the masses, especially the marginalized sections of society, about the importance of cyber safety and the best practices to follow in the digital world. The initiative has sensitized over 47 lakh students, teachers, and the general public on various aspects of cybersecurity, such as identifying cyber threats, practicing cyber hygiene, prevalent cyber laws, and cyber ethics, through collaborations with local educational institutions and street plays. Under the same initiative, the Foundation has launched an ‘Earn & Learn’ program aimed to empower the youth of the country. This program purposely engages and trains student volunteers strengthening their skill set to become future leaders of the country. These students relentlessly join the cause of spreading cyber awareness amongst communities at large in the most creative ways possible. In the past year, the initiative has touched over 8 lakh lives alone.
The nominations for the awards came from 6 zones across Maharashtra and Karnataka, reflecting the widespread impact of the program. The awards were given under the categories of Cyber Suraksha Warriors (Students), Cyber Safety Champions (Teachers), and Cyber Shiksha Champion of the Year (Institutions), based on the data received from the colleges describing the action, activities, and outreach efforts. Cyber Warriors were awarded in 3 categories – Best Process Compliance, Highest Outreach & Impact, and Outstanding Performance, while Cyber Safety Champions were awarded in 2 categories – Best Process Compliance and Extra Mile Recognition. Cyber Shiksha Champions received awards in 3 categories – Best Process Compliance, Special Appreciation for Media Outreach, and Creative Performance. With six winners each, the diverse categories highlighted exceptional contributions & achievements by all volunteers.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Anupama Katkar, Chief of Operational Excellence, Quick Heal and Chairperson of Quick Heal Foundation said, “It makes me proud to share the profound impact of our CSR initiatives, positively influencing the lives of over 50 lakh individuals, especially the ones living in remote corners of the country. What better way to commemorate this achievement than through the 2024 edition of the ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ Awards. This momentous ceremony not only recognizes the invaluable contributions of volunteering institutions, dedicated teachers, and enthusiastic students, who have displayed exemplary commitment to spreading the crucial message of cyber safety to the masses. It also serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to inspire and empower the youth—the future leaders of our nation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, local state administrations, the Police, Maharashtra Cyber, and industry bodies, including Nasscom, for standing with us in our mission to establish ‘cybersafety as a fundamental right for all’. Together, we aspire to ignite a movement that encourages more & more individuals to join us in creating a cyber safe and secure India.”
Lauding Quick Heal Foundation’s efforts, Mr. Sanjay Shintre, Superintendent of Police – Maharashtra Cyber, said, “In today’s digital age, where cybercrimes are on the rise, the importance of cybersecurity and safety awareness cannot be overstated. It is indeed a pleasure to witness Quick Heal Foundation’s relentless pursuit to equip the general masses with the knowledge needed to stay a step ahead of cybercrimes. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Anupama Katkar and her team for the exceptional work they have done in securing our nation. The ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ initiative is a testament to their dedication to creating a cyber-safe environment, and I applaud their efforts in making a significant impact in the field of cybersecurity education.”
Prof. V. L. Maheshwari, Vice Chancellor of Kavayitri Bahinabai Chaudhari North Maharashtra University, Jalgaon, commented, “It brings me immense pleasure to be associated with Quick Heal Foundation and the ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ campaign. The initiative is not just about imparting knowledge on cybersecurity but is a noble cause that shapes the future of our nation. Motivating faculty and students to actively participate in this endeavor not only enhances their skills but also equips them for a lifetime of success. I am proud to witness our volunteering students contribute to this vital mission, laying the foundation for them to become future leaders and cyber guardians of our society.”
Prof. (Dr) Prakash A. Mahanwar, Vice Chancellor of Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University, resonated a similar sentiment by saying, “It is a true honor to be associated with Quick Heal Foundation and their commendable ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ campaign. This noble cause goes beyond cybersecurity education – it instills a sense of responsibility and skill development in our volunteering students. By participating in this initiative, our students not only gain valuable knowledge but also acquire a skill set that will undoubtedly contribute to their success in future roles. Quick Heal Foundation’s commitment to shaping the future of our nation through such impactful campaigns is truly commendable.”
Quick Heal Foundation has been working relentlessly towards the social well-being of the nation, addressing critical areas such as education, skill development, and primary healthcare by promoting community participation, diversity, and inclusion, through various impactful programs and campaigns. Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, & 17, these initiatives have exceeded expectations with their impact reaching the remotest tribal communities, marginalized sections of society, and communities-at-large. The foundation has reached a significant milestone in touching the lives of over 50 lakh individuals through its initiatives in health and education across the nation.
Apart from the ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ initiative, Quick Heal Foundation has also contributed significantly towards youth empowerment by bridging the skill set gap through initiatives such as Earn and Learn, the Faculty Development Program. The foundation has also worked towards promoting healthcare in the remotest of regions through the Arogya Yan (fully equipped medical vans) Donation program. Outreach programs conducted by Quick Heal Foundation, such as Life Skill Education, the Shaalangan Counselling Centre, Tribal Development Project, Arogya Mansampada, etc., have been instrumental in fostering personal development and well-being among the country’s youth, especially individuals residing in underserved regions.
