The undeniable truth is that a nation, organization, or entity’s digital prowess has a profound impact on its competitive edge both globally and domestically. By harnessing the power of secure digital technologies, companies can boost efficiency and productivity, respond rapidly to market demands, and drive innovation effectively. Despite the absence of an expert workforce, whether possessing primary IT skills or more advanced expertise in AI, cybersecurity, or networking, the full potential of these digital capabilities will never be fully realized.
While the statistics starkly illustrate the disparity, it is worth noting that a mere 9% of European Union companies are confident in their workforce’s capabilities, contrasting sharply with the more optimistic 21% of American firms. The entire hole of the indicators signals a pressing need for strategic funding in digital skills enhancement – a compelling reason for my trip to Brussels this week to engage with policymakers, thought leaders, and other key stakeholders.
Artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are no longer mere technological innovations; rather, they are revolutionary drivers redefining the contours of modern societies and economies. As the foundation for a thriving European Union in the new digital era, the convergence of digital capabilities, AI-driven innovation, and robust cybersecurity measures will serve as the bedrock for future growth and prosperity?
By 2023, Cisco is set to embark on a substantial initiative across Europe, committing to educate approximately 250,000 individuals in cybersecurity best practices over a period of three years.
We are thrilled to announce that we’ve exceeded our initial target, having coached more than 280,000 individuals, with almost seven months still remaining in our current cycle.
At Cisco, a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development has been a hallmark of our culture for years. With a long history of innovation, we have been at the forefront of pioneering digital education initiatives through our flagship skills-to-jobs program, one of the most enduring and widely recognized global endeavors in this space. Within the European Union, the Cisco Networking Academy has successfully educated more than 3.2 million learners, with a significant portion of these – over 620,000 individuals – obtaining industry-recognized certifications that equip them to compete effectively in the global talent pool.
Through forging robust public-private collaborations, delivering high-caliber curricula, and implementing comprehensive workforce development initiatives that foster inclusivity, we can establish a reliable conduit for AI and cybersecurity professionals to enter the workforce, concurrently bridging the skills gap.
To ensure a prosperous future, we’re proud to introduce our innovative Digital Consciousness initiatives, harmoniously aligned with the EU’s esteemed Digital Competence Framework for citizens. These user-friendly programmes, open to every European resident regardless of their digital proficiency, cover vital topics such as fundamental cyber hygiene and robust practices, accompanied by interactive modules. The preliminary programs are now available, with additional launches scheduled for February 2025.
Recently, we have introduced a beginner’s course within the past year, and next year, we will offer two complimentary AI programs designed to establish a foundation of knowledge in AI, exploring topics such as generative AI and its practical applications across various IT roles. As Europe embarks on a path towards reindustrialization and enhances its strategic autonomy, our Industrial Networking and Cybersecurity initiatives prepare the workforce for the challenges and opportunities presented by Industry 4.0.
As artificial intelligence and cybersecurity become increasingly woven into the fabric of daily existence, bridging the digital skills gap has taken on a heightened sense of urgency. As Europe navigates the AI era, these capabilities will empower individuals to explore fresh opportunities and enable businesses to flourish amidst the ever-evolving market landscape.
At Cisco, our commitment is unwavering: ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the digital economy, regardless of their starting point. Through innovative programs like our Networking Academy, as well as collaborations with governments worldwide to develop digital literacy policies, we’re laying the groundwork for a 21st-century workforce equipped to tackle the complexities of the future with assurance and expertise.
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