The GSMA’s Principles of Mobile Privacy course is an online training program designed to support policymakers and regulators in their effort to address challenges related to the use and protection of people’s personal information. The course delves into the present landscape of mobile privacy, explores research on consumer attitudes toward their privacy, examines global regulations both existing and emerging and finally reviews GSMA’s Mobile Privacy Principles and other industry initiatives aimed at empowering consumers with greater control over their personal data.
Impact Case Study: Pascal Egbenda, Quality Manager, NATCA, Sierra Leone
In the dynamic world of digital innovation, where every click leaves a trail of data, the need to safeguard sensitive information has never been more critical. Enter Pascal Egbenda, a regulator from Sierra Leone’s Telecommunications Authority (NATCA) who took part in our Digital Identity and Principles of Mobile Privacy courses and kick-started his learning journey from a tech-savvy regulator towards a cybersecurity and data protection specialist.
Pascal was part of a technical team chosen to represent his organization, NATCA in the drafting of Sierra Leone’s policy on data protection and privacy. In anticipation of this crucial role, Pascal sought out the GSMA Capacity Building Programme and enrolled into two courses “Digital Identity for the Underserved” and “Principles of Mobile Privacy”.
The courses increased Pascal’s knowledge of the mobile industry and provided him with a new outlook on the intricacies of data privacy in the mobile context.
What I appreciated most from the course, is learning about international best practices for citizen data protection. This was an eye-opening experience because I got to see how other countries around the world are approaching issues of citizen data protection.
For Pascal, these courses were more than just a supplement to his years of experience; they served as the catalyst that seamlessly positioned him as an integral member of a team that has since drafted Sierra Leone’s Data Protection Act. The proposed act was recently submitted for review by Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Information and Communication.
Once ratified, this act aims to address various concerns related to data rights, the responsibilities of data controllers and processors, transparency, accountability, and data security. It is hoped that the act will contribute to combating the misuse and commercialization of sensitive data, and enhance the implementation of Sierra Leone’s National Identification System by fostering trust.
Since completing the GSMA’s Digital Identity and Mobile Privacy training courses and contributing to this transformative legislation, Pascal is continuing his learning journey through acceptance onto a masters of cybersecurity programme. Pascal Egbenda’s achievements are a testament to the transformative nature of knowledge. The GSMA celebrate his successes and dedication not only to mastering the intricacies of data security, but staying at the forefront of future changes in the digital landscape.
Learn more about GSMA Capacity Building courses.