MeitY and BITS-Pilani Sign MoU for Professional Development Programs
In response to the increasing cyber threats globally, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) is enhancing India’s digital security framework. Recently, CERT-In, under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani to launch Professional Development Programs in Cybersecurity. This initiative aims to equip professionals from various sectors with essential cybersecurity skills, addressing the urgent need for a skilled workforce in this critical field.
Strengthening Cyber Defense through Collaboration
The partnership between CERT-In and BITS Pilani marks a significant advancement in India’s cybersecurity landscape. Under the MoU, BITS Pilani will introduce an 8-week Professional Development Program in Cybersecurity, specifically tailored for professionals in government, public sector units, and industry. This program will be conducted at BITS Pilani’s Hyderabad campus through its Centre for Research Excellence in National Security (CRENS), with support from technology partner Rapifuzz and guidance from CERT-In. The initiative is designed to meet the growing demand for structured training in cybersecurity, a field that is becoming increasingly vital due to the rise in digital threats.
The program is set to commence on July 19, 2025, and is open to a diverse range of professionals, including those without prior coding experience. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Professional Development Certificate in Cybersecurity, co-branded by CERT-In and BITS Pilani. This certification will reflect both the academic rigor of the program and its recognition by national institutions, reinforcing the importance of cybersecurity training in today’s digital environment.
Guidance from CERT-In
CERT-In plays a crucial role in shaping the curriculum and structure of the Professional Development Program. As the national agency for cyber incident response, CERT-In is leveraging its expertise to ensure that the program addresses the latest cybersecurity challenges. This collaboration represents a pioneering effort where a governmental agency partners with a leading academic institution to enhance the cybersecurity workforce on a large scale.
The initiative is part of CERT-In’s broader strategy to bolster India’s cyber resilience. By focusing on workforce development, CERT-In aims to cultivate a skilled talent pool capable of tackling the evolving challenges posed by the digital landscape. This partnership with BITS Pilani is a significant step towards achieving that goal, emphasizing the importance of education and training in building a robust cybersecurity framework.
Insights from Leadership
Leaders from both CERT-In and BITS Pilani have expressed their commitment to this initiative. Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In, highlighted that India’s cyber resilience relies not only on advanced technology but also on developing a skilled workforce. He emphasized that CERT-In’s collaboration with BITS Pilani is a pivotal move to equip professionals with the necessary expertise to navigate the complexities of the digital and quantum era.
Prof. V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani, echoed this sentiment, stating that cybersecurity is a national priority. He noted that the program reflects the strength of collaboration among academia, industry, and government, positioning it as a vital resource for addressing cybersecurity challenges in India.
Program Details and Structure
The Professional Development Program will cover a range of essential topics, including Cyber Threats and Vulnerabilities, Network Security, Secure Communication and Cryptography, and Cybersecurity Policies. Participants will also explore advanced subjects such as Cloud Security and Advanced Persistent Threats. The program will utilize a hybrid format, combining online modules with interactive case discussions and a live capstone project, culminating in an in-person session at the BITS Pilani Hyderabad campus.
Instruction will be provided by faculty from BITS Pilani, along with experts from CERT-In and industry practitioners. This collaborative approach aims to deliver a comprehensive learning experience that blends theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring participants are well-prepared to address the challenges of cybersecurity in their respective fields.
The partnership between CERT-In and BITS Pilani represents a significant commitment to enhancing India’s cybersecurity capabilities, fostering a skilled workforce, and ultimately strengthening the nation’s digital infrastructure.
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