Online Reporter
Amos Mpofu
THE Internet Society, in partnership with Solusi University, will tomorrow host a Global Encryption Day symposium aimed at empowering women, the elderly, and people with disabilities to stay safe online.
The event will shine a light on digital privacy and online protection, targeting those most at risk of cyberbullying, scams, and online fraud.
Symposium coordinator and Solusi University ICT Manager Ntokozo Ncube said the programme was tailor-made for marginalised groups often left behind in digital safety conversations.
“Tomorrow’s symposium is specifically fashioned for the marginalised communities who need digital security the most,” said Ncube.
He said women in rural and marginalised communities would be equipped with digital privacy tools to protect themselves and their families. Persons with disabilities would get hands-on, accessible training, while senior citizens would receive step-by-step lessons to boost their confidence online.
“If we accomplish that, the symposium will have been a success,” he said.
The event will also feature practical encryption workshops and cybersecurity lessons designed to build trust and confidence in navigating the digital space.
Ncube said the symposium had four pillars — awareness building, practical training, capacity development, and research impact — all focused on creating safer, privacy-first online communities.
“Our comprehensive approach to digital empowerment and community security involves several key pillars. Firstly, awareness building — raising understanding of encryption and its critical role in digital privacy among minority and vulnerable populations. Secondly, practical training — providing hands-on experience with encryption tools and cybersecurity practices that are relevant to everyday life,” he said.
The symposium, which comes as Cybersecurity Month draws to a close, is expected to leave a lasting mark by promoting inclusivity, safety, and confidence in the online world for those who need it most.
Bongani Ndlovu