Privacy Training at Webster Tashkent Campus

The Webster University Office of Privacy and Information Security (OPIS) has conducted annual mandatory privacy training for staff at Webster Tashkent and its partner organization, the Center for Implementation of Webster University Educational Programs in Tashkent (CIEP). During the three-day on ground training participants gained theoretical background, including on how Webster’s rules and guidelines work with Uzbek laws on personal data. The participants also practiced implementing OPIS regulations.

The training began with an introduction to both GDPR and the applicable regulation in Uzbekistan, the Law on Personal Data. The participants learned about data protection and minimization techniques, threat and fines caused by data breach. Participants had the chance to practice applying this knowledge practically through tabletop exercises. Having completed the tasks in groups, participants reported on the collaborative work outcomes. Feedback on their answers was provided by Lisa Dargan and Pauline Brace, privacy experts from URM Consulting Services.

"It was such a pleasure to facilitate the training as the Webster community in Tashkent participated actively and demonstrated good knowledge and commitment to work towards compliance with the GDPR and local privacy regulations," said Dargan.

The training consisted of several modules, segmented into blocks to make it easier to complete. Having finished each module, participants were assigned a short quiz to check their knowledge.

"We see privacy as an opportunity, not an obstacle, and strive to be a valued partner and adviser to the entire University community," said Jeanelle Wiley, assistant chancellor and senior privacy director at Webster.

The CIEP Executive Director, Dr. Rasul Rakhmonov, also provided his feedback about the training: "During the Privacy Training we strengthened our knowledge on personal data protection and information security awareness. This year on ground training brings good opportunities to learn together, share experience and receive feedback from privacy experts. I highly appreciate the leadership and OPIS team for the fruitful and amazing training.”

"I think that Annual Privacy Training works as an effective strategy to build a strong community in we diligently preserve personal privacy," said Oydin Sabirova, privacy manager at Webster Tashkent. "The main take away from this year’s training is that most data breach incidents happen due to human error. We are equipped with the necessary knowledge and can apply it in everyday work to protect data."

Participants walked away from the training with important information and practical skills to protect personal and sensitive information and ensure privacy compliance within the University and beyond.