ABU DHABI – Zayed University (ZU) and the UAE Cybersecurity Council have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at GITEX 2024 in Dubai, aimed at empowering young Emiratis with the skills necessary to protect the nation’s digital landscape.
The MoU underscores the shared commitment of Zayed University and the UAE Cybersecurity Council to enhance cybersecurity education in the UAE. By increasing awareness, developing specialized academic programs, and fostering research, this collaboration aims to address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals, ensuring that Emirati students are at the forefront of safeguarding 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.”
Through this partnership, both organizations will work together to develop and implement programs that deter and prevent cyber-attacks while promoting scientific research and technological advancements. These initiatives will create new pathways for Emiratis to engage in the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Dr. Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, Head of the Cybersecurity Council, emphasized the importance of establishing this partnership with Zayed University. This aligns with the Council’s efforts to strengthen collaboration with educational institutions and the private sector, both locally and internationally, to prepare a new generation capable of tackling the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements.
He stressed that youth are the cornerstone of development in the UAE and the future leaders across all sectors, necessitating their preparation to protect these sectors from potential cyber threats.
Dr. Al-Kuwaiti also pointed out that through such partnerships, the Council seeks to activate its initiatives aimed at raising awareness and instilling a cybersecurity culture among all segments of society, particularly the youth, to foster an environment conducive to creativity and innovation in this field.