Fortinet, a global cybersecurity player driving the convergence of networking and security, has partnered with Manila Central University (MCU) as part of its Academic Partner Program.
The collaboration formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed alongside Fortinet’s distributor, MEC Networks Corporation, and partner, Sapient Technology, aims to help develop the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and address the talent shortage in the Philippines.
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 offered as stand-alone courses. It also provides opportunities for faculty members to undergo specialized cybersecurity training. These programs equip students with essential skills and knowledge in areas such as network security, web security, malware analysis, and defense, along with industry-recognized certifications, preparing them to become skilled cybersecurity professionals.
MCU students will also gain access to guest lectures by Fortinet experts and training led by Fortinet-certified instructors. These sessions will include practical exercises, case studies, and real-world applications, equipping students to meet industry demands and challenges. Additionally, Fortinet and MCU will collaborate to establish a Cyber Innovation Lab, offering students immersive, hands-on learning experiences in a cutting-edge environment.
This initiative is particularly critical, as highlighted in Fortinet’s Cybersecurity Skills Gap 2024 Global Research Report. The report revealed that 94% of organizations in the Philippines experienced one or more security breaches in 2023. Of these breaches, 77% of organizations partially attributed them to a lack of cybersecurity skills, while 84% reported difficulty finding candidates with the necessary technology-focused certifications.
Aside from MCU, nine universities and educational institutions in the country are currently part of Fortinet’s Academic Partner Program, including 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, and Mapúa University.
Dr. Renato C. Tanchoco Jr., University President of MCU said, “Providing comprehensive cybersecurity training and certifications has always been part of our vision at MCU. 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. 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.”
Alan Reyes, Country Manager of Fortinet Philippines said, “Fortinet remains committed to addressing the significant shortage of cybersecurity talent, and this collaboration is a vital step toward that goal. Our recent Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report highlights that the lack of trained cybersecurity professionals significantly contributes to security breaches, with 52% 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.”
