Strathmore University, Fortinet Join Hands To Bridge Cybersecurity Gap

Strathmore University has signed a pact with Fortinet to integrate and automate cybersecurity solutions as a way to close the skills gap therein through pieces of training at the higher learning institution.

Done through Strathmore University’s Centre @iLabAfrica that spearheads Research and Innovation, the institution is the first in Kenya to join the Security Academy Program, part of Fortinet’s Network Security Expert (NSE) Training Institute.

“We have noted an increase in employers seeking to hire employees with relevant cybersecurity qualifications. As such, the collaboration with Fortinet will further assist us in equipping our students with in-demand cybersecurity skills employers seek. We look forward to numerous students benefiting annually from the Security Academy Program resources, leading to them joining the workforce and filling critical cybersecurity roles in Kenya,” stated Dr. Joseph Sevilla, Director at the @iLabAfrica Research Centre-Strathmore University.

To help address the cybersecurity skills gap, Strathmore University joined the Fortinet NSE Training Institute’s Security Academy Program designed to provide industry-recognised cybersecurity training and Network Security Expert Certifications to students through theoretical and hands-on laboratory practice.

Through the Security Academy Program, participating Academies can leverage the cybersecurity curriculum to equip their students with the knowledge and skills needed for their careers. Students who go on to pass their Network Security Expert Certification exam are recognised in the industry among security professionals who are skilled in Fortinet’s network security products and solutions.

Fortinet’s Security Academy Program offers instructor training courses, Certifications, and software licenses to colleges, universities, and accredited institutions of higher education.

“In this hyper-connected world, numerous security attacks are leading organisations to increase their demand for cybersecurity professionals. The courses that Fortinet and Strathmore will offer will help develop the cybersecurity skills needed to overcome the security challenges we face as a region,” says Richard Otolo, @iLabAfrica IT Security Centre Manager.

“We’re thrilled to have Strathmore University join the program to provide our NSE training curriculum to students looking to develop critical skills needed to fill the security talent shortage in Kenya,” says Sandra Wheatley, SVP of Marketing, Threat Intelligence and Influencer Communications at Fortinet.

The partnership commits to addressing the cybersecurity skills shortage, a significant challenge facing organisations in Kenya today, by preparing students for a career in network security by b providing industry-recognised Fortinet training and certifications.

Studying for an ICT course in Kenya today requires individuals to gain the necessary skills to operate, support, and understand the complexities of next-generation security technologies and threats. This has led to the current strain the ICT security industry is experiencing as companies face a lack of skilled professionals.

Registrations of interest are open at Strathmore University, for the second semester, from June 2020. To apply visit @iLabAfrica.