The CyberSecPro project will train IT specialists in Cybersecurity.
Today, there is a gap between the cybersecurity skills needed in the labour market and the actual skills of the workforce. Although cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important to ensure the privacy, integrity and confidentiality of data for businesses and individuals. The EU is working to improve cybersecurity skills and promote effective action to the public to keep the digital world safe. Funded by the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) the CyberSecPro project will train future and existing IT experts to overcome current and future cybersecurity challenges. It brings together 15 higher education institutions (HEIs) and 13 security companies to develop an agile, collaborative, and multimodal training programme.
Main Facts about the project
EU co-funding
€6.7 million
Duration
Dec 2022 – Nov 2025
28 Beneficiaries
Challenges Europe faces
Higher Education Institutions are not always able to meet the dynamic needs of the market in the area of cybersecurity because of outdated curricula and not corresponding to the latest cybersecurity challenges and business needs.
How CyberSecPro can help
The project bridges the gap between academia and industry turning theoretical knowledge into practical skills.
Project partners will develop tools for advanced cybersecurity skills development as well as certificates for students and professionals.
Results
CyberSecPro has already identified cybersecurity skills gaps in Europe and provided a number of short training activities. The project is now developing best practice training models for cybersecurity training programmes, aligning with industry demands. Moreover, CyberSecPro aims to bridge the gap between degrees, working life, and marketable cybersecurity skill sets. Therefore, the role of HEIs in providing practical cybersecurity skills is an important part. Participating education institutions will provide a professional training programme offering at least 48 training modules, targeting all types of stakeholders. All of this will support the digital transformation in Europe and equip the current and next generation workforce with cybersecurity skills.
Impact
Linking innovation, research, industry, academia and SME support to provide the best possible cybersecurity training
Providing examples of best practices for cybersecurity
Access to pioneering cybersecurity tools
Skilled workers who can ensure the cybersecurity in different fields
Testimonial
“CyberSecPro develops and implements cutting-edge curricula and materials to take European cybersecurity training and education to the next level. The impact of our project will extend to the lives of every EU citizen, as we need well-trained cybersecurity professionals to protect personal data, secure public services such as healthcare, and safeguard our democratic processes, among other things. The support of the European Commission is crucial for our CyberSecPro project, as it allows us to harness the collective expertise of 28 European partners and transform cybersecurity training where it is needed: across Europe.”
Prof. Dr. Thorsten Kliewe, Chair at ACEEU, Quality Assurance Leader and Innovation Manager for CyberSecPro
The Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL) is an EU programme aimed at integrating digital technology into businesses, public services, and everyday life. It targets six areas: high-performance computing, AI, cybersecurity, digital skills, widespread digital adoption, and semiconductors. DIGITAL acquires digital technologies, partners with European entities to create practical solutions, and provides outcomes that boost Europe's digital independence and competitiveness.