WiCyS West Africa Empowers Students with Essential Digital Footprint and Data Privacy Education

The West Africa Affiliate of Women in CyberSecurity (WiCyS) has launched a significant educational outreach program aimed at equipping younger generations with vital digital safety skills. Under the theme "Your Digital Footprint, Own it, Protect it," the organization recently held an interactive session at Kasoa Methodist Basic School ‘A.’ This initiative, which coincided with the celebration of International Women’s Day, sought to instill a culture of data privacy and online vigilance among students, ensuring they navigate the digital world with caution and responsibility.

Led by Miss Elizabeth Bemah Amankwah, the program involved specialized mentees from the organization’s Data Privacy Stream who engaged directly with the pupils. These interactive sessions focused on teaching students how to recognize sensitive personal information and the long-term consequences of their online behavior. By encouraging students to become ‘Privacy Champions,’ the initiative aims to create a ripple effect where young advocates promote data protection within their families and peer groups. The sessions provided practical advice on privacy settings and the importance of maintaining a clean digital reputation from an early age.

The impact of this outreach extends beyond general awareness, as noted by the school's leadership. Headmistress Mrs. Amma Dappah Oppong expressed her gratitude for the timely intervention, highlighting that the knowledge shared would directly benefit the students in their upcoming ICT mock examinations. This practical application of cybersecurity concepts helps bridge the gap between theoretical classroom learning and real-world digital challenges. As WiCyS continues its mission across West Africa—including operations in Nigeria, Togo, and Senegal—these localized efforts serve as a cornerstone for building a more secure digital ecosystem.

Since its founding in 2012, WiCyS has remained dedicated to enhancing the roles of women in the cybersecurity sector. By involving female professionals in these educational drives, the organization not only secures the data of the youth but also provides visible role models for girls interested in technology careers. As digital threats become increasingly sophisticated, such grassroots educational efforts are essential in building national resilience against cybercrimes and ensuring that the next generation of Ghanaian citizens is both tech-savvy and security-conscious.