The UAE Cyber Security Council has launched the CYBRANI Practical Training Initiative to equip university students with hands-on cybersecurity skills and strengthen the country’s pipeline of future cyber professionals.
Launched in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research during GISEC Global 2026, the initiative will connect students with real-world cybersecurity challenges, industry experts and leading government, technology and cybersecurity organisations.
CYBRANI brings together government, academia and industry to bridge the gap between university education and the practical skills required by the UAE’s expanding digital economy. The Cyber Security Council will coordinate participating organisations and training opportunities, while the Ministry will support university and student participation.
The first phase involves Abu Dhabi Police, Mawaheb Talent Hub of the Department of Government Enablement, CPX, Core42, ANSEN, Cyber50 Defense, Sia and Fortinet. These organisations will provide practical training, mentorship, supervision and industry exposure.
Participating institutions include Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Zayed University, Abu Dhabi Polytechnic, Rabdan Academy and the Higher Colleges of Technology.
Training will focus on six areas: governance, risk and compliance; cybersecurity operations; cyber threat intelligence; digital forensics and incident response; secure software development; and artificial intelligence in cybersecurity.
Students will also gain access to practical projects, professional mentoring and career development opportunities. Those who complete the programme will receive a certificate jointly endorsed by the UAE Cyber Security Council and the Ministry.
CYBRANI is designed to support the development of national cybersecurity capabilities and contribute to the UAE’s long-term digital resilience.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
