Cisco, a leader in networking and security, and the University of Ottawa have announced a partnership to better prepare students for careers in the technology industry. Funded through Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, Cisco will integrate industry-recognized Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification into the university’s Computer and Software Engineering curriculum.
The CCNA certification validates a broad range of fundamentals for all IT careers – from networking technologies to security to software development – proving that the holder has the skills businesses want and candidates need to meet market demands.
There are projections that the sector will need hundreds of thousands of additional jobs by next year. Companies must innovate to address the shortage of skilled talent, and collaboration between the public and private sectors is also required to build a robust pipeline of networking, AI, and cybersecurity talent.
Through the partnership, Cisco also provides the university’s Cyber Range equipment to support cyber-research initiatives. And the Cyber Range is a unique training, learning and research facility where individuals and organizations can practice comprehensive cybersecurity crisis management in a realistic and immersive environment to learn how to anticipate, respond to, manage, contain and remediate cyber-attacks.
Students enrolled in the Computer and Software Engineering programs can expect to take the CCNA certification as part of their third-year courses starting in the Winter 2025 semester.
Through programs such as Cisco Networking Academy and CDA, Cisco utilizes its technology and expertise to create opportunities for individuals to thrive and supports Canada’s digital leadership on the global stage. Since its inception in Canada, Networking Academy has trained over 340,000 Canadians with industry-recognized credentials and courses.
Cisco’s CDA program aims to stimulate global digitization. Now, Cisco is working with national, state, and local governments in 50 countries worldwide to accelerate their national digitization agendas, co-develop cutting-edge solutions, and deliver beneficial services to their citizens more effectively. Cisco’s CDA programs have supported the creation of net new jobs, promoted GDP growth, and helped nurture innovation ecosystems.
KEY QUOTES:
“Cultivating a strong talent pool is critical for Canada’s future – especially as we strive to maintain a leadership position in key areas such as cybersecurity and AI. This partnership helps ensure students start their career on the right foot, while addressing the broader digital skills gap we face in Canada.”
- Wayne Cuervo, Director, Cisco Canada’s Digital Impact Office
“The CCNA certification is the industry standard stamp of approval for IT networks jobs. We’re proud to partner with Cisco as their commitment to skill development aligns with our university’s mission of empowering students for success and bolstering Canada’s reputation as an innovation hub.”
- Guy-Vincent Jourdan, Professor in the Faculty of Engineering and Co-Director of the uOttawa-IBM Cyber Range at the University of Ottawa
