Zayed University Partners With UAE Cybersecurity Council To Enhance Youth Cybersecurity Skills At GITEX 2024

Zayed University (ZU) and the UAE Cybersecurity Council have formalised a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at GITEX 2024 in Dubai. This agreement focuses on equipping young Emiratis with essential skills to safeguard the nation's digital framework. The collaboration underscores a mutual dedication to advancing cybersecurity education within the UAE.

By increasing awareness and developing specialised academic programmes, this partnership aims to meet the rising need for cybersecurity experts. It ensures that Emirati students are well-prepared to defend the country's digital infrastructure. Professor Michael Allen, Acting Vice President of Zayed University, stated, "This collaboration is about empowering young Emiratis to lead the future of cybersecurity in this country. We want to ensure that our students are not only aware of cyber threats but are also equipped to prevent and respond to them."

The MoU between Zayed University and the UAE Cybersecurity Council highlights their joint efforts in enhancing cybersecurity education. This initiative includes fostering research and creating new academic pathways for Emiratis. The goal is to prepare them for active participation in the rapidly changing cybersecurity sector.

Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of the Cybersecurity Council, stressed the significance of this alliance with Zayed University. He noted that it aligns with the Council's mission to strengthen ties with educational institutions and private sectors both locally and globally. This is crucial for preparing a new generation capable of tackling challenges posed by swift technological progress.

Dr. Al-Kuwaiti emphasised that youth are pivotal to development in the UAE and future leaders across various sectors. Therefore, it is vital to equip them adequately against potential cyber threats. Through partnerships like this, the Council aims to activate initiatives that raise awareness and instil a cybersecurity culture among all societal segments, particularly young people.

This collaboration will see both organisations working together on programmes designed to deter and prevent cyber-attacks while promoting scientific research and technological advancements. Such efforts will open up new opportunities for Emiratis in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.

The partnership between Zayed University and the UAE Cybersecurity Council represents a strategic move towards building a robust cybersecurity framework in the UAE. By focusing on education and innovation, they aim to create an environment conducive to creativity and advancement in this critical area.

With inputs from WAM