In its relentless pursuit of a secure cyber future, MITA through the National Coordination Centre MITA-NCC has been making significant progress in fulfilling its responsibilities assigned by the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC). A key achievement has been the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Community, which brings together a diverse network of stakeholders from the private and public sectors, academia, and research institutions. This community has become a platform for sharing knowledge, exchanging expertise, and fostering innovation to develop next-generation cybersecurity solutions.
This initiative was made possible through €933,000 co-funded through the Digital Europe Programme and National Funds. These funds enabled MITA-NCC to build an online register for community members, create a dedicated website, and establish an online presence to showcase its efforts. The platform promotes cybersecurity funding opportunities, raises awareness about pressing issues, and highlights the outcomes of ongoing projects. As a result of these efforts, MITA-NCC successfully brought together over 700 active individuals and more than 80 different entities. To further engage the community, several activities, including CYBER Breakfasts, were organized, encouraging members to participate in meaningful discussions and contribute their ideas.
Collaboration has also been a cornerstone of MITA-NCC's work, particularly with academic institutions such as the University of Malta. Through this partnership, a state-of-the-art cybersecurity lab has been established, providing invaluable resources for research and learning. This collaboration also led to the launch of a new Master's program in cybersecurity, which equips students with advanced skills to address emerging cyber challenges.
Another significant focus for MITA-NCC has been supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in navigating cybersecurity through opportunities co-funded by the Digital Europe Programme and National Funds. This process was further streamlined through the CYBER+ALT project, a scheme that allocated €2.8 million across five key areas. These funds allow locally established SMEs to strengthen their cybersecurity resilience by investing in critical solutions tailored to their needs.
Looking ahead, MITA-NCC is committed to continuing its efforts to support the community. This includes providing upskilling opportunities, facilitating collaborations, and connecting members with additional funding opportunities. By building on its successes, MITA-NCC remains at the forefront of driving innovation and strengthening Malta's position as a leader in cybersecurity.
To stay updated on the latest developments and opportunities, visit ncc-mita.gov.mt or follow MITA-NCC on social media.
This article is co-founded by the European Union.
