Cybersecurity sector set to generate more jobs: CySecK head

“In the coming years, the cybersecurity sector will witness a substantial rise in employment opportunities,” said Ranjeet Mishra, Head of the Karnataka Centre of Excellence for Cybersecurity (CySecK), at the valedictory function of a two-day Cybersecurity Boot Camp jointly organised by CySecK and Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) at its Regional Centre in Kalaburagi.

In his keynote address, Mr. Mishra said the boot camp had offered participants both foundational knowledge and hands-on exposure to cybersecurity. “While students in metropolitan cities are already familiar with such initiatives, our mission is to reach rural areas, discover untapped talent, and inspire them to pursue careers in this vital field,” he noted.

Pointing to the alarming rise in cyber fraud, he urged students to become agents of public awareness. “Do not pursue degrees merely for certificates; instead, work towards solving real-world problems. The future belongs to those who embrace continuous learning and adapt to emerging challenges in the digital domain,” he said.

Presiding over the programme, Shubhangi D. Chikate, director of the VTU Regional Centre, stressed the importance of research for engineering students. “Those aspiring to shine on global platforms must commit to sustained learning and keep pace with international research trends. Engineering studies should be complemented with active participation in research,” she remarked.

The boot camp, attended by 283 students from nine engineering colleges, featured a “Capture the Flag” (CTF) competition that tested problem-solving skills in cybersecurity. Prizes and certificates were awarded to the top 15 performers. CySecK also announced that 50 students would be offered an eight-week advanced training programme under its ‘Finishing School’ initiative, free of cost.

Other dignitaries present included Anand M.R., programme director, CySecK; Shilpa Hariraj, programme manager, CySecK; Shivalinga Salakki, Vivek,. Mohammad Abdul Waheed, Girish Badiger, Adarsh Gadale, Vikram Patil, Samruddh, Omkar, Brij Bhushan, Khalida and other faculty members.