TUMO Labs Launches Cybersecurity Initiative to Empower Armenia's Next Generation of Cyber Defenders

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 6, ARMENPRESS. TUMO Labs, a leading tech and engineering hub for students 18+ which serves as a key component of the EU TUMO Convergence Center, has launched a one year-long ambitious cybersecurity initiative. The project, titled Building Skills and Careers in Cybersecurity for Young Armenians, aims to give young Armenians the critical skills, knowledge, and networks they need to address Armenia’s cybersecurity landscape.

This initiative is implemented in partnership with the Information Systems Agency of Armenia (ISAA) and co-funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and ISAA and supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH as part of the Partnership for Strengthening Cybersecurity project.

The initiative includes four major components:

1. Content Development: TUMO Labs will create accessible self-learning modules in cybersecurity for their Guided Self-Learning program, covering basic to advanced levels, developed with input from industry experts and the TUMO Labs network.
2. Cybersecurity Sprints: This includes two intensive four-week sprints, where teams tackle real-world cybersecurity challenges. Mentored by industry professionals, participants will showcase their solutions in a final pitch event, where top teams can secure initial funding.
3. 42 Yerevan Coding Bootcamp: A bootcamp dedicated to cybersecurity for Main Curriculum graduates of 42 Yerevan, equipping them with career-focused expertise in the field.
4. Project-Based Learning: Participants will complete projects related to cybersecurity to gain real-life experience. This project will also allow students who completed the Guided Self-Learning course in cybersecurity to put their knowledge to the test.

This initiative reflects TUMO Labs’ commitment to delivering free, high-quality education for those 18 and over. The Building Skills and Careers in Cybersecurity for Young Armenians is a pivotal step toward strengthening Armenia’s digital resilience, preparing young Armenians to fill crucial roles in the digital economy and meet the global demand for cybersecurity talent.

About TUMO Labs
TUMO Labs is a key initiative of the TUMO Center for Creative Technologies and serves as the primary educational component of the EU TUMO Convergence Center for Engineering and Applied Science. As a dynamic learning hub, TUMO Labs offers cutting-edge, hands-on programs focused on advancing skills in technology, science, and engineering. These free, immersive programs are available to individuals 18 and older, empowering them to explore and advance their expertise in these transformative fields.

About ISAA 
The Information Systems Agency of Armenia was established in 2022 to support the advancement of Armenia’s digital agenda. Under the joint leadership of the Government and the Central Bank of Armenia, the Agency is tasked with implementing key standards for the delivery of public services and digital initiatives. By fostering a trust-based e-Society and e-Economy, ISAA aims to create a secure, open, and efficient digital environment, supporting the seamless integration of digital services across public and private sectors. ISAA is committed to strengthening the nation's cybersecurity efforts, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructures to maintain a secure, resilient digital ecosystem for Armenia.

About GIZ 
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH has been operating in Armenia since the early 1990’s and opened its Country Office in Yerevan in 2002. GIZ Armenia, as a longstanding partner of the Government of Armenia, is a strong implementing organization working on behalf of the German Government towards providing quality and results-driven integrated solutions for global challenges in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. With the aim of contributing to a more democratic, inclusive, green, and prospering Armenia worth living in, we work with a focus on three core areas: 1. Sustainable Economic Development, Training, and Employment; 2. Peaceful and Inclusive Societies; and 3. Climate and Energy – Just Transition.