DOHA: The College of Engineering at Qatar University (QU) is developing two free online courses to raise awareness about cyber security and ways to protect computing systems against cyber threats.
The courses — Cyber Security in the Workplace, and Cyber Security in Daily Life — are developed by Kindi Center for Computing Research at the college and expected to be launched in March next year. The courses in Arabic and English are developed in conjunction with Open University (UK), with support of the UK Global Cyber Capacity Building Programme, and customised to address the needs of commercial organisations and the general population in the Gulf.
The Cyber Security in the Workplace course aims to improve learners’ practical skills in cyber security and help them understand main concepts to improve security of their computing systems. It includes four modules on key cyber security threats, regulations, laws and standards.
The Cyber Security in Daily Life course looks at ways to improve cyber security practices of the general public for daily use of computing systems. It includes six modules on privacy, ethical considerations and laws relevant to the public, practical guidance on improving password security, protection against social engineering/phishing attacks, and how to respond to a cyber-attack.
Dr Rashid Alammari, Dean of the college, said: “Cyber security is important and our shared responsibility, whether it is in the workplace or our daily life. In establishing the new courses, the college is demonstrating its position as a leading partner in tackling emerging issues related to our connectedness as a society and beyond.”
KINDI Director Prof Qutaibah Malluhi said: “Cyber security has become a national priority for countries in the Gulf and empowering users with cyber security knowledge is a key part of national and regional cyber security strategies. By launching these courses, KINDI continues in its mission to serve the community and Qatar and promote quality programmes on computer and information sciences and engineering in line with Qatar National Vision 2030 and aspirations.” Project Coordinator Dr Khaled Khan said topics of the courses will benefit everyone regardless of their profession and educational background. “The courses do not require any prior knowledge in computer science or security. They will help people in Qatar and the region protect their systems, organisations and societies.”
The Peninsula
