Hyderabad: Gamified cyber security training for students has begun in Telangana through a collaboration between the state government and US-based MASK NextGen, introducing a structured digital safety and Artificial Intelligence learning program.
The Gamified cyber security training program runs as a 36-hour certification course spread across three months. It combines technology education with interactive learning methods to help students understand cyber safety and responsible digital behaviour.
Officials said the program focuses on preparing school and college students to navigate the digital world safely. Therefore, the course blends cyber security awareness with practical exposure to Artificial Intelligence concepts.
The first phase of the Gamified cyber security training program recorded participation from several educational institutions across Telangana. More than 100 students each from Little Flower Degree College in Uppal, the girls’ school of the Telangana Minorities Residential Educational Institutions Society at Bahadurpura, and the College of Journalism at Maulana Azad National Urdu University completed the Cyber Security and AI internship.
While the three-month certification course took place at Little Flower Degree College and TMREIS Bahadurpura, organisers conducted a one-day intensive workshop at the College of Journalism at MANUU.
Gamified cyber security training uses interactive learning
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MASK NextGen Avni Trivedi interacted with students and distributed certificates to participants after the training sessions.
She also met Minister for Minorities Welfare Mohammed Azharuddin, Little Flower Degree College Director Rev. Bro. John Kallarackal and Professor Ehtesham Ahmed Khan, Dean of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at MANUU.
During the meetings, they discussed expanding the Gamified cyber security training program to reach a wider student community across Telangana.
The initiative stands out for its gamified learning approach. Instead of traditional lectures, trainers use storytelling, interactive games and real-life case studies to explain complex digital concepts.
Through this approach, students learn about cyber threats, online scams, cyberbullying and ethical issues related to Artificial Intelligence. In addition, fictional characters such as Captain Fish Hook and TK Troll King help younger learners understand privacy, safe gaming and digital hygiene.
Gamified cyber security training aims to build digital responsibility
Speaking about the initiative, Avni Trivedi said children today grow up in a highly connected digital environment.
“Children today are growing up in a deeply connected digital world where technology shapes their learning, communication and opportunities,” she said.
“Our goal is to equip them not only with cyber security knowledge but also with digital responsibility, critical thinking and ethical awareness so they can confidently navigate the online space and identify risks early,” she added.
Global partner Joseph Christopher said the program focuses on strengthening digital resilience among young learners.
In the next phase, organisers plan to expand the Gamified cyber security training program to more institutions across Telangana. As part of this expansion, MASK NextGen plans to provide computers and laptops free of cost to several institutions.
Officials said the initiative aims to increase digital literacy and encourage responsible technology use among students. As the program grows, organisers expect more students across Telangana to benefit from structured training in cyber security and Artificial Intelligence.