Enhancing Internet Safety and Cybersecurity Awareness among Secondary and High School Students in Afghanistan: A Case Study of Badakhshan Province

Abstract

In the contemporary digital era, the pervasive influence of the internet underscores the imperative to equip the youth with skills for secure online navigation. While the internet presents vast opportunities, it simultaneously exposes young learners to potential risks, encompassing cyberbullying, privacy breaches, and security threats. This research meticulously examines the impact of cybersecurity education on the digital literacy and online safety of students, emphasizing the youth in Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan. It advocates for the cultivation of digital literacy and online safety principles across diverse age groups and fields of study. Furthermore, the study underscores the paramount importance of instilling awareness regarding responsible digital practices related to privacy, security, and copyright, with a compelling call for active parental involvement. To execute this research, a robust stratified random sampling technique was deployed, meticulously selecting 170 male and female students from various grade levels in both public and private schools within Badakhshan province, Afghanistan. Data collection was facilitated through a comprehensive survey questionnaire featuring 16 Likert scale-based questions. Subsequently, the gathered data underwent rigorous statistical analysis, encompassing descriptive and inferential statistics, regression analysis, and qualitative content analysis. This research yields invaluable insights into the internet behavior and cybersecurity awareness of the youth in Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan. It makes essential contributions to comprehending their online activities and digital literacy. The overarching goal is to empower students to navigate the digital landscape with confidence and ethical discernment by integrating cybersecurity education into school curricula. This approach not only safeguards their privacy and security but also optimizes the internet’s full potential. The study significantly contributes to fostering a safer, more responsible, and knowledge-driven society.