The Faculty of Engineering Management, University "Union – Nikola Tesla", is pleased to announce the successful public defence of the doctoral dissertation by Shehab Mohammad Shehab Ahmad Thani, titled "The Role of Young Generations in Shaping Future Security through Foresight and Innovation."
The dissertation addresses one of the most significant contemporary challenges in the field of security—the development of cybersecurity awareness in increasingly digital and multicultural societies. Focusing on the United Arab Emirates, the research examines how digital literacy, password security, browser security, and social media practices influence cybersecurity awareness, with particular emphasis on the role of younger generations as key drivers of digital transformation and future security resilience.
The research represents an important scientific contribution by introducing digital literacy as a validated predictor of cybersecurity awareness and by providing the first comprehensive empirical analysis of this topic within the unique demographic and technological context of the UAE. The findings have practical relevance for educational institutions, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals, supporting the development of evidence-based awareness programmes, educational initiatives, and organisational security strategies.
The dissertation also highlights the growing importance of integrating foresight, innovation, and behavioural approaches into security studies, demonstrating that strengthening digital competencies among younger generations is essential for building resilient and secure societies. As such, the research contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge in the fields of security, cybersecurity, and engineering management while addressing challenges of global relevance.
The doctoral dissertation was evaluated by the following examination committee:
Prof. Dr Vladimir Tomašević, Full Professor, Faculty of Engineering Management, University "Union – Nikola Tesla" – Chair of the Committee;
Prof. Dr Duško Tomić, Full Professor, Faculty of Engineering Management, University "Union – Nikola Tesla" – Committee Member;
Assoc. Prof. Dr Darko Trifunović, Institute for International and National Security – External Committee Member.
The Faculty of Engineering Management congratulates Dr Shehab Mohammad Shehab Ahmad Thani on the successful defence of his doctoral dissertation and wishes him continued success in his future academic and professional career.
