Khalifa University Launches Regional Cybersecurity Program

Khalifa University of Science and Technology has launched a cybersecurity training program in partnership with Google, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, and CyberE71. The program, the first of its kind in the Middle East, aims to enhance cybersecurity skills and provide practical training.

Khalifa University will take the lead in launching a comprehensive program to enable UAE universities to offer integrated cybersecurity training programs.

This initiative seeks to provide training opportunities for students and employees in both the public and private sectors, regardless of their previous educational background.

Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Khalifa University

Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Khalifa University, said, "The partnership with Google, the UAE Cybersecurity Council, and the CyberE71 initiative reflects Khalifa University's commitment to developing Emirati human capital and equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This program aligns with the UAE's national strategy to promote research and development in advanced technology and artificial intelligence."

He noted that the program provides the entire Middle East region with access to a diverse and multidisciplinary pool of digital technology talent capable of addressing digital security challenges and ensuring data security for organizations and individuals.

Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Government Cyber ​​Security Council

For his part, His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti, Chairman of the UAE Government Cybersecurity Council, emphasized that this initiative reflects the UAE's commitment to enhancing cybersecurity across all sectors by equipping the next generation with essential knowledge and practical skills. In light of the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, programs of this kind play a vital role in building a resilient, innovative, and secure digital ecosystem.

He said, "Our partnership with Khalifa University and Google adds to our efforts to build a strong public-private partnership, paving the way for achieving the UAE's vision of global leadership in cybersecurity."

The cybersecurity training program is led by a group of experts, including Dr. Ernesto Damiani, Dean of the College of Computing and Mathematical Sciences and Director of the Center for Cyber-Physical Systems, and Dr. Luigi Martino, a researcher at the center.

The Cybersecurity Council works to support and encourage partnerships that contribute to building a robust and sustainable digital ecosystem. Through combined efforts and partnerships, it accelerates the spread of a cybersecurity culture around the world to create a safer digital space for all.

The Council also launched the CyberE71 initiative, which aims to empower entrepreneurs in this field.

Google supports higher education institutions through funding programs to help students explore career paths in cybersecurity and build a workforce with the practical experience needed to protect communities in the Middle East from cyber threats.

Google's Cybersecurity Training Program offers students a variety of options, from intensive summer programs to flexible evening courses or accredited university courses.