Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST), through its Center for Sustainable Development Studies and Technology (CSDST), in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Center (NCSC), organized an awareness lecture entitled "Cybersecurity and Cybercrime in the University Environment: Protecting Digital Identity for Sustainable Development." The event brought together academic and administrative staff, alongside university students, as part of the University's ongoing efforts to strengthen digital awareness and foster a secure academic environment.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Dr. Samir AlBashir , Director of the Center for Sustainable Development Studies and Technology, emphasized that cybersecurity has become a shared responsibility extending beyond information technology professionals to encompass institutions and society as a whole.

"Cybersecurity is no longer merely a technical issue; it is a national, institutional, and societal responsibility. As digital transformation accelerates, fostering cybersecurity awareness has become essential to protecting individuals, institutions, and the broader digital ecosystem," Prof. Dr. AlBashir said.

He reaffirmed JUST's commitment to developing a smart, secure, and sustainable university environment by combining advanced digital infrastructure with continuous awareness and capacity-building initiatives for students, faculty members, and administrative staff. Such initiatives, he noted, contribute to protecting data privacy, safeguarding digital identities, and strengthening trust in digital services across the University.

Prof. Dr. AlBashir further explained that the lecture supports the University's Strategic Plan, particularly its fifth strategic pillar on the university environment and infrastructure, while contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions).

Representing the National Cybersecurity Center, Engineer Alaa Al-Kasasbeh introduced the Center's national mandate and highlighted its efforts to strengthen Jordan's cybersecurity ecosystem. His presentation outlined the Center's role in monitoring cyber threats, coordinating responses to cyber incidents, protecting the Kingdom's critical digital infrastructure, enhancing national cyber resilience, and promoting cybersecurity awareness and best practices across public institutions and society.

The lecture covered a broad range of topics, including the evolving landscape of cyber threats and cybercrime, methods for protecting digital identities and personal information, strategies for preventing phishing attacks and online fraud, and practical guidance on the safe and responsible use of digital technologies. Participants also gained valuable insights into recognizing cybersecurity risks and adopting preventive measures to enhance their digital security.

The event concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session, during which participants discussed current cybersecurity challenges facing higher education institutions, exchanged perspectives on emerging cyber risks, and explored practical approaches to protecting online accounts, personal data, and institutional information assets. The session underscored the importance of embedding cybersecurity awareness as an integral component of university life and promoting a culture of responsible digital citizenship.

Through initiatives such as this, Jordan University of Science and Technology continues to strengthen its role in advancing digital resilience, fostering cybersecurity awareness, and supporting sustainable development by equipping its community with the knowledge and skills required to navigate an increasingly interconnected digital world.