Google.org Invests in Training to Counter Cybersecurity Crisis
In response to increasing cyberattacks, Google.org has introduced the Cybersecurity Seminar program aimed at training a new generation of experts across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Google.org Commits to Digital Security
Amid a 44% spike in cyber attacks and a glaring shortage of cybersecurity professionals, Google.org has taken a proactive step by allocating €15 million in autumn 2023. Their goal is to expand cybersecurity education across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
The initiative, named Cybersecurity Seminar, has selected around twenty university institutions already. It highlights the geographic diversity of its participants, underscoring the project’s international scope.
Here are the universities involved in the program:
- Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznań
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
- Drohobych Ivan Franko Pedagogical University
- ESIEA, École supérieure d’informatique, électronique, automatique
- Institut polytechnique de Grenoble
- Khalifa University
- Masaryk University
- Nelson Mandela University
- Riga Technical University
- Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
- Technical University of Cluj-Napoca
- Technical University of Munich
- Transilvania University of Brasov
- University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome
- Università degli Studi di Milano
- University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg Business School
- University of Luxembourg
- University of Malaga
- Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
- Warsaw University of Technology
Collaboration with Virtual Routes
The project gains significant support from Virtual Routes, a specialist in emerging technologies, enhancing the educational initiative. This collaboration will enable thousands of students to access hands-on cybersecurity training, including internships, mentorships, and hackathons.
Impact and Legacy
Participants in the program will help safeguard at least 3,500 local organizations. Institutions will also receive dedicated security tools and training modules from Possible Digital, a leading GovTech industry player.
Google.org aims to cultivate a new generation of cybersecurity experts, boosting digital resilience in local communities. This program mirrors the American Cybersecurity Clinics Fund model, blending enriching education with the strengthening of local digital skills. Participating universities include Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Masaryk University, Nelson Mandela University, Università degli Studi di Milano, University of Johannesburg, among others.