WSU ICT LAUNCHES CYBERSECURITY SAVVY COMMUNITY

As a proactive step towards building a digitally secure university environment, Walter Sisulu University’s ICT Department officially launched a Cybersecurity Savvy Community (CSC) at Zamukulungisa Campus in Mthatha recently. 

The initiative aligns closely with WSU’s vision of being a technology-driven African university producing graduates who are ethical, innovative, and equipped to address contemporary challenges. 

ICT Director, Nkosinathi Zulu said, CSC is a university-wide initiative aimed at promoting cybersecurity awareness, improving digital hygiene, and fostering a shared sense of responsibility for online safety. Unlike traditional, tech-focused cybersecurity efforts, the CSC takes a people-first approach, addressing human vulnerabilities like weak passwords and phishing.”

 He added that CSC was launched in response to growing cyber threats, WSU’s expanding digital footprint, and the need to build a resilient, security-conscious culture.

“By making cybersecurity a visible and strategic priority, the CSC positions itself as a core element of WSU’s identity as a digitally driven African university,” said Zulu.

According to Zulu, CSC represents a strategic commitment to strengthening digital resilience through awareness, skills development, and proactive defence.

“WSU launched its CSC in response to the unique vulnerabilities universities face due to their open and collaborative digital environments,” he said. 

These challenges include unmonitored network access, a diverse user base with varying digital literacy, targeted phishing attacks, and the need to safeguard sensitive research data.  

"At WSU, we recognise that academic openness must be balanced with digital vigilance. Our Cybersecurity Centre is a commitment to protecting knowledge, people, and the future of higher education," said Zulu. 

He further said that Digital transformation without cybersecurity is a risk that they cannot afford. CSC ensures every innovation at WSU is built on a foundation of trust, protection, and digital responsibility. Zulu emphasised that the CSC forms part of WSU’s broader digital transformation strategy, aligning with the university’s Vision 2030 goals. 

“Collaboration between the ICT Department and other WSU departments is essential, as cybersecurity depends on shared responsibility and active participation across the university. From onboarding to academic integration, each department plays a vital role in building a culture where everyone contributes to digital safety. Cybersecurity succeeds when every department becomes a stakeholder, not just a bystander,” he added. 

 Public sector security specialist at Mimecast, Thomas Mangwiro, highlighted the critical role of cybersecurity awareness within academic institutions. He emphasised that in a university setting, information is everything it is as valuable as currency. 

"Today, we are kicking off an exciting journey- a journey to make cybersecurity not just an IT department thing, but a living, breathing part of our university culture,” said Mangwiro. 

Mangwiro said empowering cybersecurity ambassadors, tracking impact metrics, and fostering external partnerships will keep the community engaged and the programme relevant.  

BY AMAHLE HASENI