Regional Telecom Company du First in Region to Offer Cisco Networking Academy Program
In a groundbreaking move, Du, a leading telecom and digital services provider in the region, has partnered with the Cisco Networking Academy, becoming the first telecommunications operator to offer access to this prestigious program in the UAE[1][2]. This partnership is a significant part of Du's Future X initiative, a broader program dedicated to nurturing and developing local Emirati talent with industry-relevant digital skills[1][2].
The Cisco certification program, offered by Du, consists of three specialized tracks: Cybersecurity, Networking, and Programming[1][2]. Each track is designed to align with industry standards and empower Emiratis with the competencies needed for a global tech environment.
The Cybersecurity Track equips learners with skills to identify threats, monitor network activities, and establish security protocols[1]. The Networking Track focuses on hardware, operating systems, and network security, utilizing Cisco technologies[1]. The Programming Track, tailored for beginners, covers Python programming, Internet of Things (IoT), and REST APIs, aiming to build job-ready programming skills[1]. In addition, the training includes critical areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and programming to ensure a comprehensive skill set aligned with global standards[1].
Du's initiative contributes to talent development within the UAE and strategically prepares the workforce to contribute to the nation's visionary objectives in the technology sector[1][2]. The program's success is reflected in its growing cohorts, starting with 14 Emirati graduates and expanding to 52 participants in the following batch[1][2][3].
The strategic partnership between Du and Cisco Networking Academy underscores Du's dedication to employing and empowering local talent to lead and innovate in the field of technology[1][2]. Fatema Al Afeefi, the Chief People & Impact Officer (Acting) at Du, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Our partnership with Cisco Networking Academy is a testament to our commitment to fostering the technical skills of young Emiratis and preparing them for future challenges and opportunities in the tech-driven economy"[1].
This partnership aligns with the UAE's vision of Emiratization, aiming to nurture and develop local talent in critical fields such as AI, programming, cybersecurity, networking, and data science[1][2]. The program's reach has expanded to include 52 UAE Nationals in its upcoming cohort, positioning the UAE as a global hub for technology and innovation[1][2].
In summary, Du's Cisco certification program is a comprehensive, multi-track training and certification path that strengthens Emirati technical capabilities in key digital fields, aligning with national priorities to develop local talent and support sustainable Emiratization in the tech sector. The program not only equips participants with the necessary skills to succeed in the digital economy but also contributes to the UAE's vision of becoming a global technology hub by fostering a skilled local workforce in high-growth fields such as AI, cybersecurity, networking, and data science.
References: [1] Du. (n.d.). Du partners with Cisco Networking Academy to empower local talent. Retrieved from https://www.du.ae/en/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/du-partners-with-cisco-networking-academy-to-empower-local-talent
[2] Cisco. (n.d.). Building the future of the UAE with Du. Retrieved from https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/collaboration/du-cisco-networking-academy/index.html
[3] Zawya. (2021, July 14). Du partners with Cisco Networking Academy to empower local talent. Retrieved from https://www.zawya.com/mena/en/press-release/companies-news/du-partners-with-cisco-networking-academy-to-empower-local-talent-n-AANO13F76/
- The Cybersecurity Track in Du's Cisco certification program is designed to equip learners with essential skills for identifying threats, monitoring network activities, and establishing security protocols, aligning with the UAE's vision of Emiratization in the cybersecurity field.
- Du's initiative, in partnership with the Cisco Networking Academy, extends to the education-and-self-development sector by offering a Programming Track tailored for beginners, aiming to build job-ready programming skills and provide comprehensive learning in AI, data science, and programming.
- The strategic partnership between Du and Cisco Networking Academy not only focuses on empowering local Emirati talent for the tech environment but also aims to strengthen the finance sector by developing competent professionals equipped with industry-relevant digital skills in networking, cybersecurity, and programming.
