The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) is set to organize a comprehensive two-day cybersecurity event titled Cyber Muhafiz, taking place on July 23 and 24 at the FAST-NUCES campus in Islamabad. Designed to strengthen Pakistan’s cybersecurity capacity, the event features a combination of cyber drills, training activities, and a public hackathon, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in tackling digital threats.
The first day of the event will include a dedicated cyber drill and training session exclusively for professionals from the government sector. This segment aims to provide a controlled environment where participants can simulate incident response, test organizational preparedness, and engage in scenario-based training. By recreating real-world cyber threat situations, the session is intended to improve internal coordination, decision-making, and the operational skills needed to protect national infrastructure.
The second day will feature an open-registration cybersecurity hackathon, welcoming participants from across Pakistan’s tech community. The hackathon is designed to challenge individuals and teams to apply their technical knowledge to identify vulnerabilities, secure digital assets, and propose innovative cybersecurity solutions. This format encourages collaborative problem-solving and promotes skills that are directly applicable to the evolving threat landscape.
Cyber Muhafiz is a National CERT initiative focused on promoting digital resilience and building a robust national cybersecurity ecosystem. The event provides an inclusive platform for public and private stakeholders to come together, share expertise, and elevate the standards of cybersecurity practice in the country. Participants will benefit from hands-on simulations and direct exposure to technical exercises that reflect modern cybersecurity challenges.
The event also reflects National CERT’s ongoing efforts to increase awareness and readiness in the face of growing cyber threats. It encourages practical learning through direct engagement rather than theoretical instruction, reinforcing the importance of skill-based development. National CERT has called on cybersecurity professionals, students, and industry teams to register and be part of this initiative aimed at defending Pakistan’s digital space.
Interested participants can register their hackathon teams by visiting the official registration link at https://lnkd.in/dE5yMeBy. With limited slots available, early registration is encouraged to ensure participation in what promises to be an immersive and skill-enhancing experience.
The event venue, FAST-NUCES Islamabad, will serve as the hub for this activity, reflecting the growing role of academia in supporting national cybersecurity programs. Cyber Muhafiz offers a unique blend of government and community participation, strengthening the link between public policy and practical application. Through this hands-on format, National CERT aims to empower cybersecurity talent and reinforce a secure digital environment for Pakistan.
