Funding Success for Cyber Futures

02 Jun, 2022

Min read

MTU representatives

Discover Space and Cyber Security with MTU

Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) has approved €350,000 in funding for two MTU projects under the SFI Discover programme, which aims to increase participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) careers and discussions in all age groups across the country.

Both projects highlight the value of STEM literacy in society. There is an emphasis on accessibility, with Irish Sign Language provided where required, and collaboration with underrepresented groups to reach audiences that do not normally engage with STEM activities.

Sustainable Space, led by the Blackrock Castle Observatory, will engage with key partners to discuss the positive contribution of space to solving sustainability issues on earth, and on the sustainable use of space itself. A highlight of the project is SPACE week in October which will be a focal point for these discussions. This project will take advantage of lessons learned during the pandemic to reach underrepresented groups more effectively than before.

The Cyber Futures initiative (www.cyberfutures.ie) will engage young people, improving their resilience and awareness of cybersecurity, as well as showcasing the wide range of potential career options and pathways in the field. A key aspect of Cyber Futures is its Cyber Security Academy, which is a free, week-long training and education programme targeted towards transition and 5th year students, taking place online in June. As part of this programme students will learn about cyber security, ethical hacking, cryptography and more. 

Michael Loftus, VP of External Engagement welcomed the SFI funding saying “The Sustainable Space and Cyber Futures initiatives are real-world examples of how MTU is leading the way in skills training, research and STEM engagement in space exploration and cyber security”

The two projects will collaborate with each other, designing a Space-themed Capture the Flag event that will give the students an insight into both STEM in space and cybersecurity challenges. Capture-the-flag events are challenge-based events used in the cyber security industry to practice and showcase skills, as well as identifying new talent. 

MTU President, Maggie Cusack, commented: “We are delighted to welcome the funding for these projects, both of which widen the opportunities for people of all abilities to get involved in STEM. Making STEM education more accessible leads to better informed citizens, and better-informed learners empowering them to explore the many exciting careers in the STEM sectors.”

Related Posts

Dr Donna OShea, Cybersecurity courses

Dr. Donna O’Shea Nominated for STEM Woman of the Year Award 2024

Dr. Donna O'Shea, Chair of Cybersecurity at MTU and Cyber Skills Project Lead, has been nominated for STEM Woman of the Year at the 2024 Women in STEM Awards. This nomination recognizes her significant contributions to Ireland's cybersecurity landscape and her efforts to promote diversity in STEM. Join us on October 24th for a night celebrating inspiring women shaping the future of STEM in Ireland.

Read more
Cybersecurity Awareness Course for University Lecturers

Free Online Cybersecurity Awareness Course for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

Enhance your cybersecurity skills with a free, 6-week online course designed for educators in tertiary education. Learn to protect digital classrooms from cyber threats and safeguard student data with expert-led instruction from Cyber Skills and the National Forum for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning. Starts October 4, 2024—sign up today!

Read more
Cyber Ireland

Cyber Skills and Cyber Innovate at Cyber Ireland National Conference 2024

Cyber Skills and Cyber Innovate will be actively participating in the upcoming Cyber Ireland National Conference (CINC) on Thursday, 26th September 2024, at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny. This premier event unites the cyber security community, featuring leaders from industry, academia, and government.

Read more