𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗘𝗥𝗧 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗡𝗨𝗖𝗘𝗦 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗨 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗖𝘆𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗱, 𝗣𝗮𝗸𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻

At the prestigious International Conference on IT and Industrial Technologies (ICIT 2024) hosted by FAST National University of Computer & Emerging Sciences - (FAST NUCES), the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) and FAST NUCES entered into a strategic partnership to enhance cybersecurity capacity and technological innovation in Pakistan. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Dr. Haider Abbas, TI, Director General - National CERT, and Dr. Aftab Maroof, Rector FAST NUCES. Dr Shahzad Sarfraz, Director FAST NUCES and other senior representatives from both institutions attended the signing ceremony, reflecting the significance of this collaboration in addressing national cybersecurity priorities.

The MoU outlines a multifaceted collaboration designed to address Pakistan’s evolving cybersecurity landscape. By combining the resources and expertise of both organizations, the agreement aims to provide advanced training programs, cutting-edge research initiatives, and hands-on opportunities in areas such as Incident Response, Forensic Investigation, Vulnerability Assessment, Penetration Testing, and Policy Development. Key elements of the partnership include the development of tailored cybersecurity technologies which align with Pakistan's specific needs. The agreement also underscores the significance of raising cybersecurity awareness through seminars, workshops, and knowledge exchange initiatives, alongside creating opportunities for student internships and job placements to prepare a competent and industry-aligned workforce.

This partnership reaffirms the commitment of National CERT and FAST NUCES to advancing national security, academic excellence, and technological innovation. By collaborating on AI/ML-driven autonomous cybersecurity systems and prototype-focused research, the institutions aim to provide impactful solutions that address emerging cyber threats while equipping the next generation of professionals with essential skills and expertise.