Mideast Communication Systems (MCS), a consulting services provider for IT solutions and cybersecurity technologies in Egypt and Africa, has partnered with the Information and Decision Support Centre (IDSC) to launch the first specialized training programme in cybersecurity journalism coverage.
The programme, scheduled to run from 6 to 17 April 2025 at the IDSC headquarters in the New Administrative Capital (NAC), aims to empower journalists with the knowledge and skills to cover cybersecurity issues professionally and accurately.
This initiative, designed to support the media’s role in raising cybersecurity awareness, is being conducted in collaboration with 30N Group, a consultancy and media services provider in the region, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
It will enable journalists to create purposeful content that educates the public on the importance of data protection and the rising risks associated with cyberattacks.
The training programme will enrol 60 participants and focus on fundamental cybersecurity concepts and techniques for writing in-depth and engaging reports. It will also address how journalists can use accurate terminology, simplify technical content for general audiences, and highlight the critical importance of protecting personal and institutional data.
The Middle East has seen a 300 percent increase in cyberattacks over the last five years, making heightened cybersecurity awareness more urgent than ever.
“We are proud to participate in this initiative, which reflects the media’s vital role in raising awareness on cybersecurity. This training programme will equip journalists with the knowledge needed to create impactful content that contributes to building a safe and digitally sustainable society. In the face of rapid digital transformation, enhancing the ability of journalists to cover cybersecurity issues scientifically and practically is essential for protecting our communities,” Engineer Tarek Shabaka, chairman of MCS, said.
Nohra El-Nahas, executive director of 30N Group, highlighted the importance of improving how the media covers technical issues like cybersecurity. “As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential that journalists are well-equipped to handle cybersecurity topics. This training will help ensure that they are prepared to address the complexities of these issues and educate the public on the growing importance of digital security,” she said.
Osama El-Gohary, assistant to the prime minister and head of IDSC, underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening cybersecurity efforts.
“Cybersecurity is a critical sector that is rapidly evolving”. Through this programme, we aim to enhance the skills of journalists in understanding and covering these issues, which are central to the national agenda of digital transformation,” he noted.
Alessandro Fracasti, UNDP resident representative in Egypt, emphasized the programme’s significance in promoting cybersecurity awareness. “Cybersecurity is no longer just a technical concern; it is fundamental to ensuring the sustainability of digital development and protecting societies from increasing threats,” he said.
This partnership will empower journalists to cover these critical topics reliably and professionally, contributing to broader public understanding and informed decision-making.
The training will cover several key topics, including the basics of cybersecurity, the principles of protecting against cyberattacks, encryption techniques, journalistic approaches to technical issues, and simplifying complex information for non-specialist audiences.
Additionally, participants will learn how to use data and statistics to enhance their articles, verify sources, and explore successful case studies from local and international media coverage of cybersecurity. The programme will also tackle ethical considerations in covering cybersecurity events and modern reporting techniques.
