Archive · 31 Oct 2025
Women Faculty at GIFT City Cultivate Next-Gen Cybersecurity Talent
Imagine a world where computers are super smart and can break secret codes.
Two professors at Deakin University in GIFT City, India, Dr. Swati Kumari and Dr. Sonam Bhardwaj, are teaching students how to build new kinds of digital locks that even these super smart computers can't break.
They are also teaching them how to investigate cyber mysteries, like figuring out who might have caused a computer problem.
They do this by using real-life examples and projects, so students learn by doing.
Their goal is to prepare students, especially girls, for the many jobs available in cybersecurity, helping to keep our digital world safe.
Deakin University's GIFT City campus is fostering the next generation of cybersecurity experts.
Dr. Swati Kumari and Dr. Sonam Bhardwaj are leading research in post-quantum cryptography and cybercrime investigation.
The university's GIFT City location provides a unique 'living lab' for practical cybersecurity education.
The faculty aims to inspire more women to pursue careers in cybersecurity, a field currently dominated by men.
Cybersecurity is projected to create millions of jobs globally, with India being a significant growth market.
- Who
- Dr. Swati Kumari and Dr. Sonam Bhardwaj, cybersecurity faculty at Deakin University's GIFT City campus
- What
- Mentoring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and conducting research in areas like post-quantum cryptography and network forensics.
- When
- Present
- Where
- Deakin University's GIFT City campus, India
- Why
- To build a pipeline of skilled cybersecurity talent, address evolving digital threats, and promote women's leadership in STEM.
- Institution
- Deakin University, GIFT City Campus, India
- Faculty Members
- Dr. Swati Kumari (Senior Lecturer), Dr. Sonam Bhardwaj (Lecturer)
- Research Focus
- Post-Quantum Cryptography, IoT Security, Blockchain, Network Forensics, Cybercrime Investigation
- Key Initiative
- Developing quantum-resistant algorithms, integrating live research into teaching
- Industry Relevance
- Preparing students for future cyber threats and global standards (NIST, ENISA)
- Cybersecurity Workforce Projection
- 3.5 million new jobs globally by 2030