In a significant move towards enhancing cybersecurity capabilities, Cisco has entered into an agreement with the Karnataka government to train 40,000 individuals in cybersecurity skills and awareness. The memorandum of understanding, signed by Cisco and the Karnataka Innovation Technology Society, Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, aims to strengthen cyber defenses and promote awareness among citizens.
Under the agreement, emphasis will be placed on inclusivity, with 50 percent of the trained individuals being women, reflecting the need for diverse talent in combating cyber threats. Recognizing the evolving and complex nature of cyber threats, organizations are increasingly seeking to bolster their defenses by investing in skilled cyber professionals.
The partnership entails a comprehensive approach, including a ‘Train the Trainers’ program aimed at equipping college faculties with the necessary knowledge and skills to foster a robust cyber ecosystem. Additionally, initiatives will be rolled out to promote cyber awareness among citizens, empowering them to navigate the digital landscape securely.
Harish Krishnan, Managing Director and Chief Policy Officer at Cisco India and SAARC, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “As the digital-first world evolves, placing cybersecurity at the forefront, the imperative to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to identify and respond to cyber threats has become increasingly crucial.” He further highlighted Cisco’s commitment to empowering various sections of society with critical cybersecurity skills, including students, teachers, and senior citizens.
As part of the collaboration, Cisco will work closely with Karnataka’s Centre of Excellence for Cybersecurity to advance cybersecurity awareness and skill-building initiatives among students and professionals. This collaboration will involve contributing to curriculum development and providing cybersecurity courses through Cisco Networking Academy.
Ekroop Caur of the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, Government of Karnataka, underscored the importance of a cyber-resilient workforce in today’s digital landscape. Caur expressed optimism about the collaboration with Cisco, aiming to empower young professionals with essential skills and job-ready capabilities to mitigate risks in an increasingly digital-driven world.
The agreement between Cisco and the Karnataka government marks a significant step towards strengthening cybersecurity capabilities and fostering a safer digital environment for all citizens.
