In a significant step toward combating digital threats against women and youth, the National Council for Women (NCW) has organized a workshop titled “Electronic Violence and Cybersecurity” at Galala University. The event took place at the university’s Anti-Violence Against Women Unit, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and with support from the European Union.
The workshop brought together students, faculty members, and administrative staff in an effort to raise awareness about the growing risks of cyber violence, including harassment, blackmail, and exploitation in the digital space — particularly against women and girls.
High-Level Participation and Multi-Sector Engagement
The workshop featured several notable attendees and speakers:
- Ms. Hala El-Sebaie, Rapporteur of NCW’s Suez branch
- Dr. Dina El-Araby, Director of the Anti-Violence Against Women Unit at Galala University
- Counselor Ahmed El-Naggar, Legal Advisor to the NCW’s Anti-Violence Unit
- Ms. Madiha Said, Director of Crisis Management and Risk Reduction at NCW
- Ms. Rania Taha, Director of Planning at NCW
- Dr. Safaa Ahmed Al-Askary, Faculty member, College of Engineering, Galala University
Empowering Students Through Knowledge and Legal Awareness
Opening the session, Madiha Said introduced the Council’s mandate, shedding light on its national strategy for women’s empowerment by 2030, and its alignment with key presidential initiatives such as “Decent Life” and “A New Beginning.”
Rania Taha followed with an overview of the National Strategy to Combat Violence Against Women, detailing how NCW supports the establishment of anti-violence units in universities and their critical role in educational institutions.
Counselor Ahmed El-Naggar addressed the legal frameworks that protect women from cybercrimes, especially online harassment and blackmail, emphasizing recent legislative developments in Egypt.
Dr. Dina El-Araby elaborated on the activities of the university’s Anti-Violence Unit, noting its ongoing work to conduct awareness sessions across all faculties and promote a safe learning environment for female students.
Dr. Safaa Ahmed Al-Askary conducted an insightful session on the types of electronic violence, the importance of cybersecurity, and preventive mechanisms individuals can use to protect themselves online.
Legal Support and Psychological Aid for Victims
In a closing address, Ms. Maha from the NCW’s Suez branch shared the role of the Women’s Complaints Office, highlighting its efforts to provide legal, psychological, and social support to women affected by any form of violence — both offline and online.
Building a Safer Digital Space for Women and Youth
The workshop underscores the growing need for cybersecurity education and legal literacy as part of broader gender protection efforts in Egypt. With increasing internet usage among youth, such initiatives are critical in safeguarding women’s rights in both digital and real-world contexts.
The NCW reiterated its commitment to continuing its collaboration with educational institutions and international partners to build resilient communities, combat gender-based violence, and promote gender equality in every sphere of life.
