Commission approves Industry-Academia Network to improve our cybersecurity

The Commission yesterday launched a call for expressions of interest to join the new Industry-Academia Network in the framework of the European e-Skills Academy. This innovative network aims to strengthen links between industry and academia to improve cybersecurity skills and prepare the skilled cybersecurity workforce for the rapidly evolving demands of industry.

Henna Virkkunen, Vice-President of the European Commission responsible for Technology Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, said: “Cybersecurity is a key priority for the European Union and closing the skills gap is essential to ensure that our digital economy remains secure and competitive. I call on all relevant stakeholders to join the Industry-Academia Network and contribute to the creation of a strong ecosystem that responds to the needs of the cybersecurity labour market and supports the growth of a highly skilled European workforce”.

The network will include members of the e-Skills Academy, higher education institutions, European academic alliances and vocational education and training (VET) providers. They will focus on aligning academic and training programmes with the needs of the cybersecurity labour market, paying attention to current and emerging workforce needs. Concrete partnerships should emerge, such as joint programmes, mentoring programmes, apprenticeships and other initiatives.

The call will remain open on a permanent basis. However, interested parties wishing to join the launching group of the network must apply no later than 15 December 2024.

More information: European Commission.