Global cybersecurity leader Fortinet and Manila Central University (MCU) have recently partnered to address the talent shortage in the Philippines by developing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.

As part of Fortinet's Academic Partner Program, the two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in collaboration with Fortinet’s distributor, MEC Networks Corporation, and partner, Sapient Technology. The partnership enables MCU to integrate Fortinet’s Network Security Expert (NSE) training and certification program into its academic offerings, either as part of the curriculum or as stand-alone courses.

The collaboration also includes specialized cybersecurity training opportunities for faculty members. The programs aim to equip students with essential skills and knowledge in areas such as network security, web security, malware analysis, and defense. These courses will prepare students for industry-recognized certifications, ensuring they are ready to meet cybersecurity challenges.

Hands-on learning opportunities

MCU students will gain access to guest lectures by Fortinet experts and training sessions led by Fortinet-certified instructors. These sessions will include practical exercises, case studies, and real-world applications, aligning with the demands of the industry.

Additionally, Fortinet and MCU plan to establish a Cyber Innovation Lab, providing students with immersive, hands-on learning experiences in a state-of-the-art environment. This initiative is particularly critical, as highlighted in Fortinet’s Cybersecurity Skills Gap 2024 Global Research Report, which revealed that 94% of organizations in the Philippines experienced one or more security breaches in 2023.

Of these breaches, 77% were partially attributed to a lack of cybersecurity skills, while 84% of organizations reported difficulty finding candidates with the necessary technology-focused certifications.

Expanding academic partner program

In addition to MCU, nine other universities and educational institutions in the Philippines are part of Fortinet’s Academic Partner Program. These include:

• Our Lady of Fatima University

• Mindanao State University-Sulu

• Don Bosco Technical College-Mandaluyong

• Ilocos Sur Polytechnic State College

• Central Philippines State University

• Bulacan Agricultural State College

• Holy Angel University

• Systems Plus College

• Mapúa University

MCU President Dr. Renato Tanchoco Jr. emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive cybersecurity training and certifications as part of the university's vision.

As cyber threats continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, this partnership with Fortinet comes at a crucial time for our university, our students, and the broader community. With Fortinet’s expertise, we are confident in equipping the next generation of cybersecurity professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to combat cyber threats,” Tanchoco said.

"This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing technical capabilities and digital intelligence among our students, faculty, and the entire academic community. We look forward to working closely with Fortinet in shaping the future of cybersecurity talent,” he added.

Alan Reyes, Fortinet Philippines’ country manager, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to addressing the cybersecurity skills gap.

“Our recent Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report highlights that the lack of trained cybersecurity professionals significantly contributes to security breaches, with 52 percent of organizations in the country reporting remediation costs exceeding $1 million per breach. By partnering with institutions like Manila Central University, we aim to develop a skilled cybersecurity workforce equipped to close this gap, protect organizations from threats, and foster a safer digital environment,” Reyes said.