Cybersecurity drive launched in schools
In response to a surge in cyberattacks and growing digital threats, the federal government has announced emergency measures across federal educational institutions.
Acting on special directives from the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training has instructed all educational institutions in Islamabad - including private schools and colleges in both urban and rural areas, as well as Islamabad Model Schools and Colleges - to complete mandatory online training in cybersecurity and digital safety.
According to an official circular issued by the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) and the Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Authority (PEIRA), all teachers and non-teaching staff who use computers, email systems, digital platforms, or Android and iOS mobile devices must complete the compulsory training by March 8, 2026. Authorities have made it clear that no negligence will be tolerated beyond the stipulated deadline.
Sources further revealed that institutions have been directed to hold special Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions during the first week of March to ensure the immediate registration of staff and timely completion of the training.
The circular also mandates that all students from Grade 9 upwards must complete registration and account activation before 8 March, enabling them to undertake the course after examinations or during the summer holidays. Officials emphasised that safeguarding young people from the risks of the digital world has become an urgent necessity.
Heads of institutions under the Federal Directorate of Education, along with the Secretary of PEIRA, have been instructed to ensure immediate compliance, inform staff and students, oversee completion of the training, and maintain a comprehensive record of certificates. Compliance reports must be submitted by March 9, 2026.
Describing the initiative as a "top priority", officials stated that cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical concern but a critical requirement for national security and the protection of the education sector.
Security threats prompt high alert
RAWALPINDI: Amid escalating security threats, the Punjab School Education Department has issued strict directives to ensure immediate and rigorous implementation of security measures in all public and private schools.
Schools have been ordered to remain on high alert, particularly institutions categorised as A-plus and A category. Special attention is to be given to schools located in border areas and sensitive locations.
Authorities have directed strict monitoring of all incoming and outgoing individuals, heightened vigilance during opening, recess and closing hours, and active engagement of security staff. Continuous coordination with local administration and police has been made mandatory, along with immediate reporting of suspicious activity.
Schools have been instructed to ensure boundary walls are at least eight feet high and to install barbed or razor wire.
Deployment of security guards, installation of CCTV cameras, metal detectors and panic buttons must be completed without delay.
Daily search operations within school premises and effective surveillance around the periphery are required.
Only one gate should remain operational during school hours, except in emergencies. Visitor and movement registers must be maintained daily. Important contact numbers must be displayed in principals' offices, classrooms and staff rooms.
Water storage facilities are to be secured, and students are to be released in phases at closing time. Training sessions and mock exercises are to be conducted in collaboration with Rescue 1122 and Civil Defence authorities.
Each school must have a dedicated SOP for emergencies, and designated police mobiles will be assigned.
Security clearance of school premises, residents and canteen workers has been made mandatory.