Identifying Cybersecurity Elements for a Cybersecurity Framework in Higher Education

Authors

  • Joey Jansen van Vuuren Tshwane University of Technology
  • Mafika Nkambule Tshwane
  • Prof Louise Leenen

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34190/iccws.20.1.3313

Abstract

This study provides a framework and strategy for the creation of a cybersecurity culture in higher education institutions.  Cybersecurity is identified as very important in higher education institutions have to accept responsibility for protecting the institution’s assets and personal information of staff and students. This study focuses on the challenges that higher education institutions confront in creating a cyber-secure environment, of which many relate to culture. Establishing a strong cybersecurity culture can be difficult due to variables such as the institution's size and the relatively short duration of student enrolment, which is three to four years on average.  The paper includes a detailed roadmap for creating an appropriate cybersecurity culture in higher education institutions. It emphasises the critical role played by all parties concerned in achieving this goal, including administrators, academic staff, and students. As a result, higher education institutions can build a culture that prioritises cybersecurity and fosters safe behaviour among all participants while adhering to the principles presented in this paper.

Author Biographies

Joey Jansen van Vuuren, Tshwane University of Technology

Joey Jansen van Vuuren (PhD) is a Professor of Computer Science in the Faculty of ICT at Tshwane University of Technology.  She is the Vice Chair of IFIP Working Group 9.10 and a coordinator of SA for the BRICS University Integrated Thematic Group Computer Science and Information Security. Her research focuses on cybersecurity risk management. education, governance, policy and culture.  She is involved in cybersecurity research for the South African government, police, and defence. She has presented on numerous forums, such as national and international conferences, some of which she has been invited as the keynote speaker

Mafika Nkambule, Tshwane

Mafika William Nkambule is an experienced IT Executive with over 18 years in ICT strategy, governance, and cybersecurity. As Director of ICT Services at Tshwane University of Technology, he leads strategy, architecture, and cybersecurity operations. Mafika has served on various ICT committees, driving excellence and compliance in the field. With extensive experience in IT leadership  is researche focuses on cybersecurity governance

Prof Louise Leenen

Prof. L. Leenen is a professor of Computer Science at the University of the Western Cape.  She did extensive research in Cybersecurity during her time as a Principal Researcher in Cyber Defence at the Council for Scientific Industrial and Research. She is a member of the Centre for Artificial Intelligence Research. She previously was the Chair of the IFIP Working Group, WG9.10 on ICT in Peace and War. She has numerous publications in Artificial Intelligence Applications, Cybersecurity, Social Engineering, and Mathematical Modelling.

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Published

24-03-2025