TORONTO — Cisco Canada and STEM Fellowship announced today the launch of the Cybersecurity Classroom Training Program (CCTP), “Canada’s widest-reaching cybersecurity education program for high school students,” according to a press release.
“Funded by a $12 million in-kind investment from Cisco, the program aims to engage upwards of 40,000 students and 2,000 teachers across Canada by 2023 and inspire the next generation of IT leaders,” the release reads.
The program “addresses the growing need for cybersecurity awareness and education, and provides early exposure to the various tools, technologies, and career paths available in IT and digital industries.”
The CCTP includes seven modules adapted from Cisco’s Networking Academy that seamlessly weave cybersecurity content into core subjects such as math, business, English and social studies.
“Teachers across Canada will have free access to the program online, which includes modules, labs, quizzes and more to facilitate discussions that integrate into their curriculum,” the release says.
“We have a tremendous opportunity to better prepare young Canadians for a digital future in which they can participate safely and productively,” said Shannon Leininger, president of Cisco Canada, in the release.
“Canada is facing a digital skills gap, and it’s critical that we find creative ways to spark students’ interest in cybersecurity with programs that appeal to them using real-world examples. The CCTP equips students with the building blocks for a future in IT and helps fuel Canada’s digital talent pipeline,” Leininger said.
“An understanding of cybersecurity and digital threats has never been more pressing, yet topics of cybersecurity and active digital citizenship are missing from high school curriculums. The Cybersecurity Classroom Training Program gives students a solid foundation in cybersecurity,” said Dr. Sacha Noukhovitch, president of STEM Fellowship and recipient of the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM.
“Technology is continually evolving, and teachers need access to current and relevant content that can be integrated into lesson plans and lean into their students’ interest.”
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Image borrowed from STEM Fellowship’s website here.
