Speaking at the ceremony Morake said he was elated to be the winner more so that he has contributed in creating awareness in cyber security.
Rudisang Morake
“This is a good initiative trying to create awareness so I decided to do my part. But the competition was not difficult because I have a background in computer science, so when I saw the competition I thought it in line with what I did at school so I gave it a shot. This is a platform which enabled us to spread awareness out there that the internet can be a dangerous thing, so I will continue following to see what they have in store for us. But I am really happy to help them push the message,” said the University of Botswana Computer and Finance graduate.
In position two was Lone Mojalemotho of Molepolole who won himself a laptop, P2500 prize money and 12-month Internet subscription and Smega card with P1000.00. While the third position went to 16- year- old Katso Mochotlhi who also walked away with a laptop plus 12 months Internet subscription and Smega Card loaded with P1000.00
Requirements of the competition was for participants to send in two minutes long videos expressing their knowledge of cyber security threats as well as awareness through aspects such as poems and animation. Participants were also required to show good understanding of cyber security and instill the element of creativity in order to captivate and capture the attention of viewers.
Officiating at the award ceremony, Minister of Transport and Communications Thulaganyo Segokgo said the challenge came at the right time more so that the youth are the most vulnerable. “Cyber security awareness is crucial in the digital era, and initiatives such as the Cyber smart Challenge are exactly what society needs to remain safe and secure. I’m pleased that the competition caters for one of the most vulnerable groups of society – which is the youth. The Cyber smart challenge provides a platform for the youth to create awareness on cyber security and provides an opportunity for their active participation in promoting safe online behaviours,” said Segokgo.
For his part In future Foundation campaign coordinator David Moepeng said the challenge continues to grow tremendously having received 160 competition entries this year as compared to 100 in 2020.Moepeng further noted the competition which is the first of its kind in Southern Africa has already attracted interest in countries such as Namibia, Malawi and Zambia who want to copy and replicate it.
Botswana Telecommunications Corporation, European Union and Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority sponsored the competition.