CARDIFF – September 18^th, 2017 – Cisco today announced its collaboration with the National Cyber Security Academy (NCSA), a joint initiative between the University of South Wales (USW) and the Welsh Government to help develop the next generation of cyber security professionals. The NCSA launched in 2016 as the first of its kind in Wales and a major UK initiative, working with industry to close the cyber security skills gap.

With 80% of the worlds internet traffic traversing Cisco networks, the company’s industry leading insight, technology and research capabilities help block 20 billion cyber threats a day. Cisco will utilise that capability to support the NCSA programme in four ways: sharing deep industry insights on competency and skill profile, providing technical software resource, consultation and collaboration on the curriculum (including guest lectures) and with practical experience opportunities.

The structured programme will work with current USW BSc (Hons) Applied Cyber Security, Computer Forensics and Computer Security undergraduates, providing the opportunity to experience real-world projects set by Cisco and other NCSA partners. The programme will evolve with the threat landscape to help provide the necessary skills to combat the latest cyber security challenges.

Through the partnership, students will have access to a well-balanced education that blends theory and real-life experience, including the opportunity to take on industry-specific projects and potential future employment opportunities with Cisco.

Scot Gardner, Chief Executive, Cisco UK & Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to be working with the University of South Wales on this initiative. Wales has a significant part to play in combatting the cyber security threat. With a focus on business innovation and skills, particularly in initiatives like the NCSA, the country’s focus on cyber security is helping address a business critical issue, not only for Wales or the UK, but globally. We see this as an important step in not only building on a great relationship with specialists in Wales, but supporting and investing in the development of skills across the UK.”

Stephen Biggs, who is Head of the NCSA, said: “We are proud to have such amazing students at our University and believe that by investing in the development of young minds now, we can make a real difference in the future. Cisco has a strong heritage in both cyber security and skills initiatives, and by working closely with the company’s leading experts, we look forward to seeing the calibre of students that will emerge, who can help solve some of the world’s biggest cyber security challenges.”

Today’s announcement is the latest example of Cisco’s commitment to support digitisation in the UK. Cisco’s digitisation strategy is a long-term partnership with government, industry and academia to deliver real outcomes faster and more effectively for the country. It is part of Cisco’s global commitment to accelerating digitisation of countries around the world. For further examples, please visit the Cisco Newsroom.