Group-IB, a leading creator of cybersecurity technologies aimed at investigating, preventing and combating digital crimes, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Prince Mugrin University (UPM) to strengthen the Saudi Arabian cybersecurity ecosystem and equip UPM's talented students with the skills they need to succeed in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.
The MoU was signed at a ceremony held at the university's campus in Madinah under the supervision of Dr. Bandar M. Hajar, and was represented by Dr. Ahmad Shauil, Dean of the School of Computer and Cyber Sciences, and Group IB by Mohammad Freifel, Business Development Manager of Group IB.
Group-IB’s partnership with Prince Mugrin University (UPM) marks the beginning of a comprehensive collaboration aimed at strengthening cybersecurity education and expertise.
Key areas of collaboration include providing UPM staff and students with Group-IB’s industry-leading cybersecurity solutions such as managed Extended Detection and Response (XDR), business email protection, threat intelligence and attack surface management, which will also benefit UPM’s on-campus incubated startups.
Additionally, both the institutions will work together to design, develop and deliver educational curricula, workshops and consultancy services in cybersecurity and digital forensics. The MoU will also facilitate industry exposure for UPM students through interaction and internship opportunities with Group-IB's CERT/Incident Response Team.
“This strategic partnership brings us together to strengthen cyber resilience. By leveraging Group-IB's expertise, tools and resources, we aim to equip Prince Mugrin University's students and staff with practical cybersecurity skills and develop a new generation of professionals in Saudi Arabia,” said Mohammad Freifel, business development manager at Group-IB.
“This collaboration will help us address the cybersecurity talent shortage and enrich university curricula with real-world insights. We are proud to expand our comprehensive cybersecurity training program to address this critical gap and welcome both aspiring professionals and those in the IT industry looking for a career shift. Together, we are committed to equipping students with excellent knowledge and hands-on training in cybersecurity, driving advancements that benefit both academia and industry,” added Freifel.
“This partnership highlights the importance of training the next generation of cybersecurity professionals to defend Saudi Arabia and the Middle East,” said Dr. Bandar bin Mohammed Hajar. “Providing our students with the latest knowledge and hands-on experience of Group IB will not only enrich their education, but also prepare them to excel in the field and make a meaningful contribution to Saudi Arabia's cyber defense.”
“In line with Saudi Vision 2030, this cooperation represents a positive step towards developing a skilled workforce to protect critical infrastructure and drive cybersecurity innovation,” Hajar added.
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