Under the evolving defense framework, Guyana hosted the inaugural CEO Cybersecurity Workshop organized by the National Defence Institute (NDI). The interface presented leaders of the couple of key sectors to address the burning cybersecurity issues characterized by the country’s economy.
The event is a forward-looking process in digital security. It tended to arm decision-makers with strategies of defenses against ascending cyber threats under the leadership of President Dr Irfaan Ali, heading this initiative.
Dr. Randolph Persaud, Director of the NDI, led off with a bold declaration of the mission of the institute as he opened the workshop. The director framed the NDI as crucial to Guyana’s resilience in rallying for a united frontline of evolving challenges. His address resonated with participants, who were prepared for some powerful discussions.
One of the standout sessions was headed by Colonel Sheldon Howell, Chair of the NDI Advisory Board and Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency.
In his presentation, he underscored the role of cohesive policy, strong governance, and partnerships that play in countering cyber threats. The private sector plays the most crucial role in building a resilient infrastructure-a road mapped emphasis.
The workshop took a closer and harder look at external cyber threats. Dr. Seon Levius exposed Venezuela’s targeted campaigns against Guyana, with efforts to destabilize the institutions and undermine the sovereignty of the Essequibo Region. He presented evidence of such orchestrated attacks, pointing out robust measures the nation is taking against them.
Industry leaders also had important insights to share. Steven A. Williams, regional cybersecurity authority, made it possible to run an interactive ransomware attack simulation in which the audience lived the horrors of cyber breach risks.
Muriana McPherson, Director of Cybersecurity at the National Data Management Authority, presented practical tools for incident reporting and threat management. She identified resources geared toward improving organizational security.
Representing the private sector was Kester Hutson, President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who expressed that cybersecurity needed to be maintained to sustain economic expansion, lauding on the part of the government in terms of this matter.
The event culminated in a presentation of corporate best practices by cybersecurity specialist Christopher Lawrence who in turn presented CEOs with steps that can fortify their operations.
The workshop really affirms the place of NDI in taking Guyana to the fore position in cybersecurity. In tackling and collaborating on these threats, the institute is setting the foundation for a digital future that will be resilient.
