Quick Heal Foundation, the CSR arm of Quick Heal Technologies Limited, held the 2025 edition of the ‘Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha’ Awards on January 12 in Pune. This event celebrated the exceptional contributions of volunteering institutions, teachers and students dedicated to promoting cyber safety and awareness across India. The event was graced by the presence of CP Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra, Dr Prakash Mahanwar, Vice Chancellor, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University along with Anupama Katkar, Chief of Operational Excellence at Quick Heal and Chairperson of Quick Heal Foundation. The occasion was also attended by Quick Heal's leadership team, including Dr Kailash Katkar, Chairman and Managing Director, Dr Sanjay Katkar, Joint Managing Director, and Vishal Salvi, Chief Executive Officer.

The "Cyber Shiksha for Cyber Suraksha" initiative focuses on empowering youth with essential skills in leadership, presentation and digital education while offering a platform to build confidence. In alignment with the vision of 'Digital India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' promoted by PM Narendra Modi, the programme provides marginalised communities with vital cyber safety knowledge. Through innovative outreach methods such as street plays, workshops and digital campaigns, the initiative has reached millions, establishing partnerships with over 120 institutions, training 4,600+ Cyber Warriors and sensitising more than 55.92 lakh students across schools and colleges. Its expansion into 12 states under the ‘Earn and Learn’ programme and efforts in 13 states via street plays highlight its growing impact. Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, and 17, the initiative works towards bridging the digital literacy gap and promoting responsible online behaviour.

The awards this year celebrated the remarkable contributions of teachers, club officers and institutions who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to promoting cyber safety. These efforts reiterate the initiative's ongoing dedication to empowering youth as catalysts of change and creating a safer digital environment. Volunteering teachers were recognised under categories such as the Best Principal Award, which honours visionary leaders who foster stakeholder engagement and impactful outreach, and the Best Teacher Award, which celebrates coordinators guiding students with exemplary dedication. Club officers (students) were celebrated for their leadership and contributions, with accolades like the Best Performing Team Award for outstanding outreach and engagement, the Best President Award for driving innovation and effective leadership, and the Best Community Director Award for impactful community activities. Likewise volunteering institutions were also honoured for their contributions, including the Best New Club Award for outstanding performance by recently joined institutions and the Cyber Smart Club Award for excellence in educating communities through a mix of online and offline efforts. The Best Club Overall Award was presented to a top-performing institution that demonstrated exceptional leadership and exceeded expectations in its outreach initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Anupama Katkar, Chairperson of Quick Heal Foundation, emphasised, “Our journey of fostering a cyber-safe environment continues to grow stronger, with youth empowerment and development at the core. Today’s achievements highlight the dedication, resilience, and creativity of our participants—who represent the future leaders of our country, committed to creating a cyber-safe India. It fills me with immense pride and gratitude to witness the unwavering commitment of students, teachers and institutions in spreading the message of cyber safety. Their efforts not only protect individuals but also strengthen the very fabric of our digital society. Together, we are shaping tomorrow’s cyber guardians, inspiring change, and empowering communities with knowledge and hope for a more secure and prosperous future.”