The Commission launches Industry-Academia Network to bridge cybersecurity skills gap

This network will strengthen the links between industry and academia to boost cybersecurity skills, ensuring the European cyber workforce is adequately equipped to meet growing demands in the sector.

Henna Virkkunen, European Commission Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, said:

“Cybersecurity is a critical priority for the European Union, and bridging the skills gap is crucial to ensuring our digital economy remains secure and competitive. I urge all concerned stakeholders to join the Industry-Academia Network and help build a robust ecosystem that meets the cybersecurity job market’s needs and supports the growth of a highly skilled EU workforce.”

Members of the network will include stakeholders of the Cybersecurity Skills Academy and higher education institutions, European University Alliances, and vocational education and training (VET) providers. They will focus on aligning the needs of the cybersecurity job market with academic and training offerings that suit current and emerging needs of the workforce. Concrete partnerships are expected to emerge, encompassing joint curricula, mentorship programmes, apprenticeships, and other initiatives.  

The call will remain open on a permanent basis, however, stakeholders wishing to be part of the network's launch group should apply by 5 January 2025.

Read more about the European Commission's cybersecurity policies.