CYBERSECURITY KNOWLEDGE AND DATA PROTECTION STRATEGIES AMONG PRINCIPALS OF PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN THE FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY (FCT), ABUJA
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Objective: The increasing use of digital technologies in school administration has made cybersecurity a critical concern for educational institutions. Method: This study examined the level of cybersecurity knowledge among principals of public secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and explored strategies to enhance their competence in safeguarding school data. A descriptive survey design was adopted, and a sample of 67 principals was selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation). Results: The findings revealed that principals have low levels of cybersecurity knowledge, but they identified training workshops, ICT seminars, access to online resources, clear policies, and collaboration with ICT experts as effective strategies for improvement. Novelty: The study concluded that improving principals’ cybersecurity knowledge is essential for protecting school data. It recommended regular training programs and the establishment of clear cybersecurity policies supported by expert guidance.
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