Fortinet, CERT-In partner to enhance cybersecurity skills for enterprise, academia

U.S.-based cyber security company Fortinet entered into a partnership with the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) on Monday to help advance cyber awareness and cybersecurity skills in the industry and academic institutions.

Vivek Srivastava, Country Manager, India & SAARC, Fortinet said that the partner program offers advanced training and certifications that empower individuals and businesses across all levels to protect themselves and their communities or stakeholders against evolving cyber threats and a foundation for a safer digital future.

Fortinet has announced its goal of addressing the global cybersecurity skills shortage in 2022. At the halfway point of its five-year pledge to train 1 million individuals by 2026, the company has already trained over 500,000 people. 

Through the company’s Training Institute programmes, it aims to reduce the growing cybersecurity workforce gap which is currently estimated at 4.8 million professionals.

Fortinet’s initiatives include partnerships with India’s AICTE and EduSkills Foundation to provide 100,000 virtual internships, and its pledge to train 75,000 individuals in Europe as part of the European Commission’s Cybersecurity Skills Academy. 

Fortinet's 2024 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report reveals a startling link between cybersecurity breaches and skills shortages in India. A whopping 92% of Indian organizations reported breaches last year, largely blaming the cybersecurity skills gap. Additionally, 80% acknowledge that this gap escalates their cyber risks.

Needless to say, cybersecurity certifications are highly valued today, with virtually every company looking to hire certified professionals, recognizing that certifications enhance security measures.

“Cultivating a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce for the future is essential for achieving a resilient cyber landscape. This Public-Private partnership venture with Fortinet aims to equip academic institutions with industry-standard cybersecurity expertise,” Sanjay Bahl, Director General, CERT-In said, 

To combat the ongoing talent shortage, many companies are diversifying their hiring strategies, welcoming candidates from varied educational and professional backgrounds and investing in their certification and training. 

Other companies globally are also collaborating with organisations worldwide to host boot camps, expanding access to hands-on training. These programs help ensure a diverse and inclusive workforce, benefiting groups like veterans and women interested in cybersecurity careers.