Protecting digital space is a national duty just like defending our borders
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA), Dr. Khaled Al-Zamel, affirmed that safeguarding the digital space is a national responsibility that is no less vital than protecting the nation’s land and maritime borders.
Speaking at the launch of the “Hackathon – Kuwait Cybersecurity League” held on Saturday, Dr. Al-Zamel emphasized that the event represents more than a technical competition—it is a platform to discover and nurture creative minds with the passion and potential to become future leaders in cybersecurity both regionally and globally, reports Al-Rai daily.
The hackathon was organized by Dourat, in cooperation with Zone, and sponsored by CITRA. It attracted wide participation from university and school students, professionals, and cybersecurity enthusiasts.
Dr. Al-Zamel noted that the league serves as a launching pad for a generation equipped with knowledge, standing at the forefront of defending their homeland and protecting its digital assets. “Cybersecurity has become the first line of defense for nations, societies, and economies,” he said.
He highlighted CITRA’s ongoing commitment to supporting initiatives that empower young people to develop skills in digital security, artificial intelligence, and technological innovation, enabling them to become key drivers of Kuwait’s digital transformation.
“This league is not merely a competitive arena,” Dr. Al-Zamel added, “but a clear message that the Kuwait of tomorrow is protected by the minds and efforts of its youth. True digital transformation cannot be achieved through technology alone—it requires dedication, awareness, and national commitment.”
Dr. Al-Zamel also praised the efforts of the organizing company, describing it as a model of public-private sector cooperation working toward a safer and more digitally resilient Kuwait.
For his part, Mohammed Al-Suraye, CEO of Dourat, underscored the significance of such initiatives that bring together young talents and national professionals to strengthen digital resilience and develop advanced cybersecurity capabilities.
Al-Suraye noted that the world is now facing an open and ongoing confrontation with cyber threats. “According to recent statistics, more than 2,200 cyberattacks occur daily worldwide—equivalent to one every 39 seconds. These figures underscore that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, one that begins with awareness and ends with innovation and cooperation,” he said.
He pointed out that the first edition of the hackathon achieved remarkable success, with over 480 participants from various universities and institutions contributing innovative ideas and demonstrating talents that continue to flourish in the fields of technology and cybersecurity.
The event concluded with the presentation of cash prizes and the nomination of winning teams to represent Kuwait in the upcoming regional cybersecurity competition in Egypt, which will feature participants from more than 20 Arab and foreign countries.
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