UGC Asks Universities to Promote Digital Safety, Data Privacy

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed vice-chancellors and college principals across the country to enhance awareness on cyber security, data privacy, and responsible online conduct among students, faculty, and non-teaching staff.

UGC’s Call for Stronger Digital Security

In its latest advisory, UGC stressed that in today’s digital era, cybersecurity has become a matter of paramount importance for safeguarding both individuals and institutions. With rising cases of cyber fraud, phishing attacks, and data breaches, the commission urged higher education institutions (HEIs) to create structured awareness programmes. The UGC letter stated, “With the increasing reliance on technology in the teaching-learning ecosystem, it is essential to inculcate awareness and good practices relating to digital safety, data privacy, and responsible online conduct among the academic community.”

Parliamentary Panel Recommendations

The Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs had earlier released a report on “Cyber Crime – Ramifications, Protection and Prevention.” The committee recommended introducing cyber education across non-technical courses in HEIs, covering:

• Cyber awareness
• Digital safety practices
• Responsible online behaviour
• Basics of data privacy

UGC’s Cyber Hygiene Handbook

In November of last year, the UGC published a Handbook on the Basics of Cyber Hygiene for higher education institutions. The handbook provides practical guidance and best practices on:

• Cyber awareness
• Data security
• Safe online conduct
• Digital privacy measures

The commission has now asked universities and colleges to:

• Upload the handbook to their official websites
• Promote it through official social media handles
• Include a mandatory cybersecurity session during student orientation programmes (Deeksharambh)