By Johannah Malogadihlare
South African cybersecurity company Clyrofor and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research have agreed to foster innovation and skills development in cybersecurity.
They have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that also supports the commercialisation of cybersecurity technologies.
This strategic partnership is expected to play an important role in strengthening cybersecurity in South Africa by enhancing collaboration around the technological capabilities of both organisations.
They said in a statement that they also aimed to strengthen expertise in cybersecurity, create new opportunities for innovation and contribute to economic growth by addressing socio-economic challenges such as unemployment through a formal skills training programme.
“By combining Clyrofor’s expertise with the advanced research capabilities of the CSIR, this partnership aims to make a lasting impact on the cybersecurity and technology sectors,” said Clyrofor CEO Loyiso Boyce.
The CSIR said that partnership aligned with its core mission of advancing scientific and industrial research to address socioeconomic challenges in South Africa.
“This partnership with Clyrofor marks a significant step towards unlocking new opportunities for innovation. We are excited about the potential of this collaboration, not only in advancing cutting-edge technologies but also in enhancing skills development and strengthening South Africa’s growing cybersecurity technological landscape,” said CSIR executive manager Sipho Mbhokota.
The two will form an academy of excellence to facilitate the exchange of students, interns and staff for practical training in cybersecurity and collaborate on initiatives such as hackathons to foster innovation.
On technology commercialisation, they will evaluate commercialise cutting-edge, home-grown technologies through proof-of-concept projects.
CSIR information and cyber security centre manager Dr Jabu Mtsweni explained the importance of independence and resilience in the sector.
“Our goal is to develop home-grown tools that enhance national security and protect businesses and citizens. We also hope to expand our footprint across Africa through this collaboration,” he said.
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