The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, the charitable foundation of ISC2, and ISC2 Colombo Chapter, in collaboration with STEMUP Educational Foundation, are excited to announce a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing cybersecurity awareness and education among Sri Lankan school students. This collaborative endeavor also seeks to empower the next generation of cybersecurity professionals by engaging volunteers from universities.

The MOU signing ceremony took place on 25^th October, bringing together key representatives from each organization to formalize this visionary partnership.

With the rapid expansion of the digital landscape, the need for cybersecurity education and awareness has never been more critical. Sri Lanka, like many nations, faces the constant challenges of cyber threats and vulnerabilities, making it vital to equip the younger generation with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves and their future careers in an interconnected world.

Key highlights of this MOU include:

1. Cybersecurity Workshops for School Students: The collaboration will organize workshops and educational events to introduce school students to the fundamentals of cybersecurity. These initiatives aim to raise awareness and cultivate an interest in this vital field from a young age.
2. University Volunteer Engagement: University students with a passion for cybersecurity will have the opportunity to volunteer and contribute to the delivery of educational programs. This hands-on experience will not only bolster their own expertise but also enhance the educational experience for school students.
3. Resource Sharing: The three organizations will pool their resources, expertise, and networks to create a comprehensive platform for cybersecurity education and awareness. This will include sharing educational materials, hosting events, and tapping into the collective knowledge of the partner organizations.
4. Mentorship & Career Opportunities: In pursuit of their mission to foster the growth of cybersecurity professionals, ISC2 Colombo Chapter and STEMUP Educational Foundation will offer Internship & Mentorship opportunities to outstanding university students interested in pursuing careers in cybersecurity.

Holly Schneider Brown, Senior Director, Center for Cyber Safety and Education, expressed her enthusiasm for this partnership, stating, "We believe that education is the cornerstone of a safer and more secure cyber environment. By joining forces with ISC2 Colombo Chapter and STEMUP Educational Foundation, we can make a meaningful difference in Sri Lanka's cybersecurity landscape."

President of ISC2 Colombo Chapter, Sujit Christy, added, "The global challenge of cybersecurity and the associated skills necessitate attention. Through our collaboration with esteemed organizations, we aim to involve and uplift a diverse pool of future cybersecurity professionals, providing support as individuals advance in their careers in cybersecurity."

Prabhath Mannapperuma, Founder of STEMUP Educational Foundation, emphasized the transformative potential of this MOU, saying, "Our focus is on empowering youth through education, and with this collaboration, we are taking a significant step forward in safeguarding the future of our students."

The signing of this MOU signifies a new era in cybersecurity education and awareness in Sri Lanka, as these organizations bring their collective knowledge, passion, and commitment to the forefront of this vital field. Together, they are determined to build a more resilient and secure digital future for the nation.