How we educate and groom digital natives for responsible innovation and social/ecological answerability will tap their potential for greatness (or folly)

Today’s youth are the first generation ever to grow up fully immersed in the digital world, giving them a unique advantage to address the challenges in today’s complex security landscape.

Their innate understanding of digital systems and a natural adaptability to new technologies gives them an edge in navigating online security. With their deep comfort with tech and innovative perspectives, the potential of this digital generation addressing the societal impact of cybersecurity and cutting-edge technology to ace the future of cybersecurity is exciting.

To drive for improvements in digital safety, we must recognize cybersecurity and technological advancements as the social issues they are, with widespread ramifications when things go wrong. In fact, in the last two years, the World Economic Forum has ranked cybersecurity among the top five risks facing the planet.

Young people, often at the forefront of advocating for collective action on social causes like climate change and global poverty, are the key to making cybersecurity a priority on the global stage. 

Linking cybersecurity with societal Issues

While you may think they are unrelated, cybersecurity plays a significant role in issues such as sustainability and environmental stewardship: by ensuring the integrity and reliability of the digital systems.

In modern infrastructure, digital technologies are integral to managing critical infrastructure such as energy grids, water supplies, and transportation networks. Effective cybersecurity measures must protect these systems from cyberattacks. For instance, smart grids and renewable energy installations rely on secure digital platforms to optimize energy distribution and reduce waste, contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.

Cybersecurity also plays a vital role in the deployment and maintenance of green tech. Technologies such as IoT for environmental monitoring and precision agriculture depend on secure networks to function correctly and provide accurate data. Protecting these systems from cyber threats ensures they operate efficiently and safely, supporting their adoption and enhancing their contributions to sustainability goals.

For example, secure IoT devices in agriculture can optimize resource use, thereby reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Cybersecurity champions in future generations

Unlike previous generations that had had to adapt to digital advancements, today’s younger people have been using smartphones, computers, and the internet almost since birth. This ingrained competence and ease with digital tools makes them adept at navigating and addressing cybersecurity challenges. Also:

  • The current generation’s commitment to social causes can also fuel their dedication to cybersecurity. They are deeply aware of the broader implications of cyber threats, recognizing that security breaches can have far-reaching consequences for privacy, economic stability, and even national security. This awareness drives them to advocate for robust security measures and policies that protect individuals and communities. Through social media and other platforms, they can raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity, educating their peers and the broader public on how to stay safe online.
  • Innovation is another critical strength of this and future generations. Young people are not just passive consumers of technology but active creators and innovators. They are at the forefront of developing new technologies and applications, driven by a desire to solve problems and improve the world around them. This entrepreneurial spirit lends itself to progress in cybersecurity, where young innovators are developing cutting-edge solutions to protect data and systems from cyber threats. Hackathons, coding competitions, and tech startups are breeding grounds for young minds to devise creative strategies and tools.

Today’s and tomorrow’s youth are uniquely positioned to support the cybersecurity needs of the future. Their digital native mindset, innovative spirit and commitment to education and social causes make them the most promising generation to tackle cybersecurity challenges.

Youths’ role in Responsible AI 
The younger generation is poised to play a pivotal role in the development and integration of AI. The United Nation’s Global Youth Report asserts that 93.2% of young people polled had a positive perception of AI, with 76.3% believing AI is a serious but controllable risk.

This optimism is an important starting point, but it is crucial we improve the technical understanding of AI, as just 24% of respondents indicated they grasped how AI works. 

Youth education and involvement in the ethical development and deployment of AI can ensure that the technology is leveraged for the greater good, promoting inclusivity and fairness. To make the most of these technologies, it is imperative that we give younger generations the necessary skills, correct knowledge and digitally moral upbringing.

Specialized training programs and certifications can enhance their expertise continually, ensuring that they are well-prepared to safeguard digital infrastructures. By pursuing these educational opportunities, young people are acquiring the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and implement effective cybersecurity measures.

As digital pioneers, they are paving the way for a secure and resilient digital future, ensuring a balanced view on how technology benefits society, while also protecting against the ever-evolving threat of cyberattacks.