OPSWAT Academy, University of Liberia empower Africa’s next-gen cybersecurity professionals

OPSWAT Academy has partnered with the University of Liberia to advance the University’s cybersecurity training objectives, establishing the Academy’s first stronghold in Africa. This cooperative effort marks another milestone in globalizing critical infrastructure protection (CIP) cybersecurity education and sets a direction for an exemplary cybersecurity culture.

Supported by the OPSWAT Academy’s $10 Million Scholarship Program, the University of Liberia aims to become a leader in computer science training across Liberia and the broader African continent, with a special focus on enhancing CIP cybersecurity education. This initiative is designed to equip both teachers and students with advanced cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills to address evolving cyber threats, while also enhancing expertise in incident response and threat detection.

“Cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge, it’s a critical pillar for our future infrastructure,” Irfan Shakeel, vice president of certification and training services at Opswat, said in a blog post. “Partnering with the University of Liberia allows us to tap into a vibrant talent pool in Africa and shape the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. We are thrilled to join hands with such a prestigious institution to expand the reach and impact of our education programs.”

The University’s goal is to develop a robust community of cybersecurity professionals who can protect digital assets and ensure the integrity and security of information systems on a global scale. Additionally, the University is committed to supporting underprivileged students, promoting diversity, and advancing best practices in cybersecurity.

To achieve these objectives, the University of Liberia has partnered with OPSWAT Academy as a scholarship recipient to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the dynamically changing modern tech industry.

“Our partnership with OPSWAT Academy will be instrumental in advancing our joint initiatives within the cybersecurity realm,” Titus G. Gooding, an instructor at the University of Liberia, said. “The scholarship program will significantly impact our ability to offer specialized training and education to a wider audience, empowering individuals with essential skills for today’s digital security landscape.”